Hello, my journey began in 2017. I had a reverse shoulder replacement early that year, and then six months later, in August, I had a spinal cord abscess. I walked into the emergency room one August night, and then I was paralyzed from the waist down. With a lot of help from my family and therapist, I was able to walk again and gain back most of my independence, even though I still had some issues with my hips not engaging.

In 2024, I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis and arthritis in my lower back, causing me severe pain and making it difficult to walk. I had to begin using a walker again to keep my balance. I am receiving injections in my back to manage the pain, but my endurance and balance have been affected. I am trying to purchase a power wheelchair so I can again get back some of my independence. I would like to be able to go out in my backyard again and go to the park with my nieces. At times, I would need the wheelchair in my home as well.

Thank you for listening to my story. Sometimes those of us with disabilities don’t feel heard or seen. If you have a journey, please share it with me; I would love to hear it.