09/15/2026
How do we become better?
We need to admit there’s areas the require improvement, and think of how we can achieve that.
We need to hold ourself and those we are around or represent accountable. Which can be an uncomfortable position to be in.
It’s important to have hard conversations with yourself, and those around you. Challenge the status quo, push to get things better.
We do not become advocates simply from speaking about our platforms. We need to listen, and expand, and sometimes be ready to engage in pushing against what is present to create a better future.
No one is perfect. No one is done learning. Everyone can and should try to improve. Not just as individuals, but cooperations.
I sit now as Ms Wheelchair New Mexico, and I say with confidence that MWA / Ms. Wheelchair America needs to grow as a company, platform, and for their communities. They do many great things, but they can do more for the brand, for the pageant, for those who make it to nationals.
These women fight so hard for their platforms and deserve to be heard and seen as equals, and not be treated as less if they need accommodations to make it work.
That’s the whole point, we all need accommodations to progress through our lives, and work. It doesn’t make any of us less.
You are not less for requiring more accommodations. It’s just part of life and I hope moving forward there is more done so everyone who makes it to nationals truly has an inspired opportunity.
Soon I will be passing my torch to another amazing woman who I hope will continue New Mexicos unshakable voice and S.H.E.R.O. Actions.
That if they see someone at nationals not being given accommodations they should be, or on the fray, they help let that person know they do matter. Hopefully they see where there can be improvements, and speak openly on it without fear, especially since I will have their back.
We all have room for improvement,and together we can take a step in the right direction.
Image description: Ms wheelchair New Mexico photographed upside down in their wheelchair by a fellow pageant goer. They are wearing a white shirt with black bats that’s a button down and short sleeves. Their black white plaid pants have straps that go over their shoulders. Their blindness cane is also in the image.
A stark reminder that it’s okay to not quite fit in and to instead break the mold. Just don’t get a concussion doing so.
