Episode 88 - Conversation with Katie Wheeler - ”Overcoming Adversity”

My name is Katie.  I am a 33-year-old college graduate who just so happens to have cerebral palsy and use a wheelchair for mobility.  My disability may give me numerous challenges to overcome, but these challenges do not define me.  How I respond to them does.

I currently hold and Associates degree in Human Services and while I may not necessarily have a job in this field, I’m happier than I’ve ever been and I cannot wait to see what the future has in store.  As a teenager, I was told numerous times that I would never be able to go to college, much less attain a degree from a notable institution.  But I showed them.  I’ve proven that with a little hard work and dedication that you can have the kind of life and career that you dream of.

It’s true.  My path to success wasn’t paved with shortcuts and many doors were shut in my face, but I never gave up.  I kept moving forward and trying new things until eventually, I found something that I’m good at.  (Advocacy, marketing and public relations). 

It’s also true that I didn’t necessarily reach this conclusion on my own.  I have a strong support system around me who has been encouraging me every step of the way.  And while, I’m just beginning my journey in marketing, I know that I have a strong support system around me who has been encouraging me every step of the way.  I owe my success to God, my parents, especially my stepdad and my friend and mentor who has not only encouraged me to strive for perfection, but who has opened more doors for me in the last five years that I could have ever imagined.  I also owe my success to my late Canine Companions assistance dog Valley who helped me overcome the challenges and adversity before me and become the person I am today.  I will forever remain indebted to Canine Companions for everything they have given me in the past, the present and the future.  They are a great organization and you should check them out at www.canine.org.

I am currently at our local YMCA perfecting my marketing and public relations skills.  I have grown up a lot as a result of this experience and I can only hope that my efforts shine through and that in the grand scheme of things, that I am making a difference.  Do I have what it takes to maintain the wholesome image of the YMCA or perhaps another organization such as Canine Companions?  I don’t know.  Only time will tell.

If you’re interested in having me as a guest on your show or at your next event, please reach out to me at my Facebook page linked below or send me an email to speakeronwheels@gmail.com and I’ll see what I can do.  I am currently in the process of booking speaking engagements both in person and virtually.  Thank you so much!  I look forward to hearing from you in the future.

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