Meet Michelle

Tell us about yourself?

I am a 34 year old woman. When I was 19 I had a catastrophic asthma attack and died in my mother’s arms. Due to the lack of oxygen to my brain I sustained a severe brain injury. My parents were told that I would remain in a vegetative state for the rest of my life, only blinking my eyes. Over the past 15 years, I have had to relearn everything including walking, talking and eating. I was peg fed for 6 Years. I lived in a nursing home for 16 months when I was 19. Today I still face many challenges due to living with a brain injury including severe short term memory problems.

I don’t let my brain injury stop me from living a full and rewarding life. I do a lot of public speaking. I love sharing my story as I know it gives hope to others to face their own obstacles with courage and determination. I also have a card making business and have a team of volunteers who support me.

What are your interests?

I love to spend time with friends and family. I enjoy swimming, meditation, bowling and going to the movies. I love eating out. I love a good laugh.

What is your greatest achievement, or the thing you are most proud of about yourself?

I’m really proud that I am living in my own home and I am journeying successfully towards living independently.

What is the most important thing people should know about you?

People should know that I am a very determined individual, I try my best at everything I do. I focus on my abilities instead of my disabilities and I believe in never giving up.