Help Me Make History at Miss Ohio USA

Help me return to the Miss Ohio USA stage!

Last year, I came the closest I ever have to a dream I’ve carried since I was a little girl. I stood, hand-in-hand, in the Top 2 at Miss Ohio USA. Ultimately, I was named 1st Runner-Up. That moment changed me—not because I didn’t walk away with the crown, but because I realized the continued impact I made just being there, fully myself, scars and all.

I’ve debated returning this year. The costs are steep, and there have been some directional decisions and private comments released within higher levels of the organization that I don’t personally align with. But the state-level remains strong. I also believe that change doesn’t come by walking away—it comes when someone stays. When someone dares to show up exactly as they are and says, “I belong here too.” I want to be that someone.

Many of you are aware of my living with Heterotaxy Syndrome, a condition so uncommon that I was given a 50/50 chance of surviving past 25. I’m now 33. My life has been shaped by four major, life-threatening abdominal surgeries. Each one left its mark—especially the 8.5-inch scar down my stomach, a symbol of resilience, survival, and strength. There has never been a Miss Ohio USA—or Miss USA—with a large, visible scar. There has never been a Miss Ohio USA with a rare disease. It’s time to change that.

I’m not just a survivor. I’m a cosplayer, creator, equestrian, and academic, holding four degrees, including a Master’s in Healthcare Administration. I’ve dedicated a lot my life and career to improving systems that support people like me—people with complicated medical histories and big dreams.

Pageantry, for me, isn’t about glitter, crowns, or gowns. It’s about visibility. Advocacy. It’s about showing young women—especially those with scars, disabilities, or rare diseases—that they can take up space, wear a crown, and own every inch of their story.

The total low-estimated cost to return to the Miss Ohio USA stage this year is $5,700. That includes entry fees, wardrobe, travel, training, and overnight accommodations. It’s an investment—not just in a competition, but in a movement to redefine what it means to be a titleholder in 2025.

I’m asking for your support. Whether it’s a financial contribution, words of encouragement, or sharing my journey with someone who might be moved by it—every bit helps. Even if 100 people donate $5 dollars, that gets me closer to this dream! Your donation isn’t just helping me compete. It’s helping break down barriers. It’s helping redefine beauty standards. It’s helping prove that women with scars and stories deserve the spotlight too.

If you’d like to stand with me, I’d be honored.

Thank you for believing in the power of showing up exactly as we are.

With hope and heart,

Hannah

Personal/Private Support:

● Accepting donations of all sizes. Donations of $200+ will have the option to be publicly thanked as sponsor.

Regardless of the outcome- If I reach my full goal, I intend to sell my gown and opening number dress after competition and donate proceeds to Heterotaxy Connection or the National Organization of Rare Disorders (NORD). <3