2017
Ms.Wheelchair
America
Ms. Wheelchair America Testimonials
- Kelsey Kleimola,
Ms. Wheelchair Michigan 2014
"When I first heard of the Ms. Wheelchair America program, I wasn't sure what I was getting into. I saw a photo of a former titleholder on Facebook with a mutual friend. She was wearing her sash, and I thought, what is this?
In truth, I was nervous. As I heard more about what the program entailed, I figured there was no way I was going to win. Especially after researching the girl I was competing against. She'd already gotten news coverage, and I'd never done anything more than graduate college, get married, and have babies. I couldn't imagine that I had anything to offer. I was just living life.
After being crowned Ms. Wheelchair Michigan 2014, things changed. I started realizing that no matter how insignificant I may have felt, my voice mattered. I had influence on not only how I saw myself, but how others saw me. I was no longer just a girl in a wheelchair for others to stare at or pity, but someone whom others could look up to. A place from which hope could be drawn.
During the National competition in Long Beach, CA, I again didn't expect to win. I was there to learn and maybe meet some new friends. I didn't expect to be forever changed by the experience.
Imagine you have lived a life with good experiences and wonderful memories, but have always been tinged by someone telling you that you're not good enough. Someone is always doubting, always questioning your ability. When I got married, people questioned if I would be able to be a good wife and partner to my husband. When I had children, people questioned whether my disability would affect how well I was able to provide for their needs. With every accomplishment, it seemed like there was always a voice whispering, "You can't do this."
Now imagine sitting in a line of women who are just like you. Women who have shared many of your same experiences, and who are successfully living life. They're thriving as lawyers, mothers, teachers, and business owners. You hold hands with them. You anxiously await the announcement of the Top Five for Ms. Wheelchair America. You hope your name is called, but you're praying for the girls beside you because you know they deserve it just as much.
I had that moment. And I felt so empowered. So uplifted. I no longer heard a whisper of doubt but a loud, roaring voice shouting, "You are enough."
That is what this competition means. It means even in a world not made for you, a world that constantly tells you you aren't beautiful or smart or worthy because you live your life sitting down, you will forever have women cheering you on and pouring out truth. You will forever have a sisterhood."
"When I was crowned Ms. Wheelchair Ohio 2012, it was one of the most stand-out moments of my life. It was such an honor to be a voice for the more than 56 million people living with disabilities. When I started, I thought that I was looking at a year full of opportunities to explain our challenges and display our abilities. It was all of that and honestly so much more.
I answered more questions than I can begin to count. I made suggestions and recommendations on inclusion. I built up children’s esteem and tried to convince others to encourage those around them. I learned and lived more than I ever expected in that year. There were lessons about laws, lives, access, struggles and triumphs. I met some the most amazing women from across this country. I formed friendships that will stand the test of time. I expanded my family by 27 when the other contestants became as close as any sister could be.
My reign as Ms. Wheelchair Ohio was a time in my life that I will always be grateful to have had. Not only did I get to encourage other individuals, I rolled away from this experience forever inspired."
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- Angela Hunter,
Ms. Wheelchair Ohio 2012
"As Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin 2012 I had the privilege to participate in the Ms. Wheelchair America Pageant. My time at the National competition remains one of the most empowering and life changing experiences that I have ever had. As I sat in the room with so many wonderful women, all with different empowering messages, it was incredible to witness each and every one of us come together with the common goal of advocating for all people with disabilities. It is something I'll never forget.
Although we were all competing for the title of Ms. Wheelchair America, the great thing about the whole week was that we weren’t really competing with each other. We were encouraging each other. We sat side by side and celebrated each person’s success, and each person’s story, because we knew that every experience, every message, and every platform being shared was important.
Ms. Wheelchair America empowers women to not only advocate for the rights of people with disabilities, but also for the rights of all people. It shows that we are truly beautiful on the inside and on the outside."
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- Amy Bleile,
Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin 2012
"I have never been a “pageant person” but the experiences I had with the Ms. Wheelchair America program helped me gain self-confidence and public speaking experience. By moving out of my comfort zone I was introduced to a fantastic group of women who are survivors, leaders and innovators. I’m still amazed and empowered by many of the past and present contestants. The tiara and sash have a certain degree of power and can help bring attention to the issues you feel are important, which is key in the world of advocacy."
- Jenn Wolff,
Ms. Wheelchair Iowa 2011
"Many would think the week we spent together interviewing, presenting a speech, and answering on stage questions was a competition, but for me this week was an opportunity to meet amazing, talented, and beautiful women; with whom a few, despite the distance, continue to be friends today. This was a week that I will treasure forever."