About Me

I was in a car accident on November 17, 2003 (part 1 & part 2) when I was 19 years old. A car ran a red light and T-boned my car on the driver's side. The accident caused many injuries: broken ribs and a broken pelvis, a collapsed lung, a ruptured spleen and severe internal bleeding. The car that hit me was going approximately 50 mph, and the impact was so severe that it caused my head to swing to the right, snapping my neck in what is referred to as a "hangman's fracture." My neck broke at the second cervical vertebrae, leaving me paralyzed from the neck down and unable to breathe on my own. I've gone from having a normal, able-bodied life to now being disabled and completely dependent on others for all of my physical needs.

I never expected to break my neck and become permanently disabled, especially in the prime of my life, but I've adapted well and have made the best of my new life. I can honestly say that I'm one of the happiest people I know and I wouldn't change my life, even if I could. I credit God for my positive attitude, because He has truly given me a spirit of joy. Just as I never expected to become paralyzed, I would've never expected to find so much JOY in a life that would be undesirable to most.

This is a picture of my mom and me. She is my caregiver, my best friend and is truly an angel for devoting her life to spending so much time each day taking care of me.

14 comments:

Anonymous said...

You seem like a wonderful person and a great example!

Anonymous said...

I am curious what "work" you do on your computer if you do not work. I applaud your positive attitude, but it seems like you might get even more fulfillment in life if you had a job or finished school. There are so many things you can do from a computer, and you would even get some extra money to help with your care, etc. Just because you're disabled, doesn't mean you can't have a fulfilling life and contribute to society. Especially when you have to look out for yourself some day.

Jaclyn Fratangelo said...

Please find Jaclyn Shinn Fratangelo Concord, CA or Pleasanton, CA I was a C2 quad., ventilator dependent, but I walk and breath by the good grace of God. My album is posted of my journey through quadriplegia and out. I stopped placing corporate people in corporate jobs and began assisting individuals with disabilities into employment. I feel it was my calling. The reason God gave me a second chance. There's a lot of opportunity for workforce diversity. I'm considered an "incomplete quad." So I still suffer paralysis, but in ways most would only know if I chose to share. I have a limp and my right arm is impacted, but I'm very fortunate. A drunk driver hit me and my lap belt ruptured organs and my shoulder strap hung my neck fracturing my C2. I was dead on arrival, but God had other plans. You and your blog inspire many even me. Good for you for being heard. Please don't ever sell yourself short in the employment industry. You have a lot to teach people. Sincerely, Jaclyn Fratangelo

Chipper said...

To the unkind anonymous person who posted on May 28th.....I pray that you know God and if you don't, I pray that you find Him. Do you know He loves you unconditionally??

And to Heather....you my friend are an inspiration to us all....You are doing Gods work and He will reward you! Be blessed...

Heather (Paralyzed with JOY!) said...

Thanks! I'm glad that you find me to be an inspiration. That's a really nice thing to say and something really appreciate. God bless you for your kind, affirming words! :) Present

Unknown said...

REALLY? Perhaps you would have more fulfillment if you realized that the essence of a life well lived is hope, joy, mercy, love, compassion, kindness & the ability to give more to than the world than you take from it.

Unknown said...

YES Heather you are a inspiration to us all I so admire you. God needed you for the job your doing helping others.

Newman'sBlog said...

I agree you are an inspiration to ALL! Keep up God's work and keep smiling :)

Linda L. said...

Hi Heather, Over 15 years ago I met a lady who was a paraplegic. She was (is) a Christian and attended church. I remember how nice she was to me at a special event where I came alone. She befriended me and made me feel liked and important. And she always had a smile on her face. There have not been very many people like her in my life. My impression of you is that you are very much like her. God bless you and guide you and be your help. Love and prayers, Linda L., Fresno, CA.

Unknown said...

Hi Heather, I love your blog. You are such an inspiration and not JUST for those who are physically impaired. I send you my most heartfelt good wishes and prayers. Stay safe young lady! Jane Knox, Tri-Cities, WA

The Gearys said...

You are such an inspiration! Thank you for such a beautiful outlook on life and for making a difference in the world!!

Karen Gayle Stout said...

Heather, I was getting ready for a session at the St. Louis Temple on Friday, as you and your beautiful mom were finished and came into the dressing room. I loved seeing your wonderful smile as the worker who was with me explained to me about your accident, and your current speaking engagements offering hope to groups of people. Pay no attention to anyone who tries to diminish the importance of what you are doing with your life. There is NO PAID WORK that is worth more than giving hope and inspiration to others.God bless you in your journey in this life, and please believe that you are admired and appreciated more than you know. ♥

Bianca said...

Hi there
Just read your page, you are an inspiration to many. i am also a quadrapalegic but i can fortunately move my arms. Keep up the good vibe and enjoy every day

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