I am in a chair with wheels. I haven't always relied on a wheelchair; in fact, I used to love skiing and even used to be a model. I was as mobile as any person could get. But my life changed on August 4th, 2007. On that night, I was the victim of a horrible crime that has left me forever changed. I was attacked by a stalker at my home in Ft. Lauderdale by a man I had considered to be a mere acquaintance.
A man by the name of Allan Sinclair IV plotted an attack against me and showed up at my house one random night. He was not a friend of mine, nor was he a complete stranger, so when he knocked on my door that night, I was apprehensive, but opened the door to this acquaintance of mine.
Before I knew it, he put a gun to the back of my head. I spoke to him about God and told him he needed to let me go. When I fled for her life, he opened fire and one of the bullets completely obliterated the T-12 section of my spine and paralyzed me. I landed in the gravel beside my driveway, conscious. Sinclair then got in his SUV and ran over me in my own driveway, turning the wheel on top of my abdomen, causing further injuries.
He fled the scene and I desperately screamed for help, but no one came. My neighbors phoned the police when they heard the shots being fired but were too afraid to come to my aid. I lie there, paralyzed in agonizing pain when suddenly Sinclair came back within minutes, grabbing me by the ankles and dragging me across the driveway behind the hedges.
I was left there to die. I prayed for my life and prayed to be saved while waiting to be rescued. I survived by a miracle, by the grace of God, and I am ever so grateful.
Fortunately, this dangerous man was apprehended the very next day. On October 2, 2009, Allan Sinclair IV pleaded guilty to attempted rape and first degree attempted murder and was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole. I have some closure and peace of mind knowing he will never get out of prison to hurt me or anyone else again.
The doctors confirmed that the injuries to my spine were so severe, I will never walk again. I spent over six months in the hospital and in rehabilitation facilities, but am grateful to be back in my own home. Every day is challenging for me, but through sheer will, determination, and an amazing support system, I keep pushing forward.
I try to remain
positive despite chronic pain and my disability, but I sincerely believe that every day is a gift and life is truly a blessing. I have attended support groups who have helped me adjust to my new life, to solve problems, and to set goals and since becoming involved, I have been helpful and encouraging to others who struggle with the same issues. I have become more involved with various activities and sports geared for the disabled.
Handcycling is now one of my favorite sports and I just completed my third full 26-mile marathon! I feel such a sense of accomplishment and my family and friends are very proud of me.
I survived a violent, brutal attack that should have killed me. But it didn't. And it certainly didn't kill my spirit either. I want to make the most of my life and by sharing my story, experience, and perspective, I believe I can help others as well. I speak at various group meetings and hope to have a positive impact by promoting awareness of disability and giving motivational speeches. My goal is not to get sympathy from anyone, but rather to help people understand the importance of not taking life for granted.
Living with paralysis is extremely difficult and every day I have my challenges, but I manage and want to be as independent as possible once again. I have modified my home to be handicap accessible by installing ramps in the front and back of the house, as well as interior modifications which have made it a bit easier for me to maintain independence. I also have an aide who assists me in my home five times a week, helping out with various tasks and chores.
Instead of feeling sorry for myself, I realize things could always be worse. I am still alive, and while I am alive, I will settle for nothing less than making the most of my life. But I need your help. Due to my condition, I am unable to work but I do receive government aid. But it's not enough.
I need your help. I need more people to read my story. I have already inspired many people, but it's not enough. It's never enough. Please help me spread the word about my story and my goals so I can help other people along my journey.
Life is beautiful, which is the reason I started this blog. To share my life; to share my story. I wanted a place where I could write updates about the events in my life. Activities I've done, goals and accomplishments I've achieved. Speeches I've given. Words of encouragement. Or even a place for me to vent my frustrations. But generally just to share my story and inspire people along their journey.
