My life was forever altered in January 2021 when what should have been a routine knee replacement surgery turned into a painful nightmare of unimaginable proportions. As I lay on the operating table, fate dealt me a cruel hand: a grave mistake during the procedure resulted in a catastrophic injury to my artery. What ensued was a whirlwind of medical interventions with five additional surgeries in just 12 days, all in a desperate attempt to rectify the damage. The excruciating pain was relentless. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, I ultimately lost my right leg above the knee.
The aftermath was nothing short of agonizing. A cascade of complications prolonged my hospital stay, relegating me to the confines of the Critical Care Unit. To add insult to injury, an allergic reaction to medication forced me onto life support, plunging me into a state of severe physical and emotional turmoil. Days turned into weeks, and weeks into an entire month spent in the throes of uncertainty and agony. Yet, amid the darkness, a flicker of resilience emerged.
My journey was fraught with pre-existing challenges. A botched surgical procedure on my left leg in 2016 left me with severe physical deformities and irregular bone growths. The list goes on, setting the stage for a complex and impossible recovery. Subsequent surgeries only compounded the challenges, leaving me grappling with physical ailments. But through it all, I refused to be defined by my circumstances.
With unwavering determination and the unceasing support of loved ones, I navigated through the darkest of times, finding solace in the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the setbacks and the pain, I discovered a new purpose – a "why" that propelled me forward. As I reflect on my journey, I am humbled by the lessons learned and the victories achieved. My story is not just one of survival, it's a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of hope.
In the face of adversity, I discovered the true meaning of resilience: the ability to rise above circumstances and emerge stronger than before. Though I never received financial compensation for my ordeal, I gained something far more valuable: a sense of purpose and a newfound appreciation for life's blessings.
During my recovery, I stumbled upon wheelchair pageants, where I found a platform to redefine beauty and strength. Within a year of my traumatic experience, I was crowned Ms. Wheelchair Oregon, a title that symbolized my journey of resilience and redemption. Today, as I prepare to return to the National Stage as Ms. Wheelchair Pacific Coast USA, I am reminded of the countless obstacles I have overcome and the countless more that lie ahead. Yet, with my own determination and the support of my community, I am ready to face whatever challenges come my way.
The landscape of empowerment expanded further in 1997 with the establishment of Ms. Wheelchair USA, an organization that would redefine inclusivity and advocacy. In 2023, I had the honor of becoming the very first Ms. Wheelchair Oregon in the history of this prestigious platform. It was a moment of immense pride and responsibility, knowing that my voice would resonate as a beacon of change.
In contrast to conventional pageantry, our competitions eschew swimsuit and talent segments. Instead, emphasis is placed on eloquence, advocacy, and the ability to articulate one's goals and plans. As a participant, I found myself immersed in a community of like-minded individuals, each driven by the desire to effect meaningful change. Representing Ms. Wheelchair USA and The Dane Foundation among the 5,000 pageants worldwide has been a transformative experience. It has not only deepened my understanding of advocacy, but also illuminated my personal journey as a wheelchair user.
Through this journey, I discovered by "why" – the driving force behind my commitment to advocacy and empowerment. Moreover, my involvement has fostered a sense of kinship, forging bonds that transcend boundaries and disabilities. Every encounter and every conversation has been a lesson in empathy and resilience. For me, learning is a lifelong pursuit, and through these experiences I continue to grow, evolve, and inspire. I urge you to explore the invaluable work of Ms. Wheelchair USA and The Dane Foundation. Whether as a participant, supporter, or advocate, there are myriad ways to contribute to this noble cause. Together, let us champion inclusivity, elevate voices, and pave the way for a more accessible and equitable future.
To anyone navigating their own trials, I offer this simple truth: resilience is not about avoiding challenges, but about confronting them head-on and emerging triumphant. No matter how daunting the obstacles may seem, there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow. And in that hope lies the power to transform adversity into opportunity and pain into purpose. As I continue my journey of recovery and advocacy, I carry with me the lessons learned and the belief that no obstacle is insurmountable. With every step forward, I am reminded of the strength that lies within each of us, waiting to be unleashed in the face of adversity. And with that strength, I am ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead, knowing that with resilience, anything is possible.
About the author
Melinda Preciado is a resilient mother of two with 17 years of experience in healthcare. Despite life's unexpected turns, her spirit remains unbroken. An adventurer and outdoor enthusiast, Melinda finds solace in photography and embodies strength, empathy, and critical thinking in facing adversity.
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