Using my Knowledge to help Others in Need

I've always been a kind, generous, giving person and put others before myself. Although more so now that I know what it’s like from a perspective of someone with a disability, more specifically a spinal cord injury. I need constant help and support from those around in order to live a happy, meaningful and fulfilling life.

I’ve seen firsthand others in similar situations who need support and guidance in their life in order to get through tough times. I have been there before. I’ve struggled to find my place in a world that has a difficult time accepting those who are different from them. When it comes to people with disabilities, I had to unpack a lifetime of negative messages.

One thing that’s unique about my situation is that I never had any anger after my accident. I’ve figured, what kind of life would I be living if I went around being mad at everything that happened to me. I find it fatiguing to go over tireless circumstances, feeling like a victim of something, and self-pitying because I don’t feel it gets me anywhere. Although, I know there are those who have had similar things happen who may struggle with a different way of living and do question things constantly.

Through the last 18 ½ years, my accident has brought me many positives-including great friends, increased empathy, strength, forgiveness, appreciation, openness and a brand-new perspective on life itself. The thing that keeps me going is knowing that I can be there for those in need, along with the people who I care about most in my life. It has always been a part of my self-serving nature, even before my injury.

There are thousands of individuals and families affected each year who have encountered an SCI, and I believe throughout all the different types of disabilities, it’s amongst the most shocking life events one can experience. It often falls under that person’s friends and family to assist them on the hard road ahead to rehabilitation. Also, after this big of significant change, life is usually never the same again. One thing that’s most important is that those affected never give up hope.

This brings me to my next endeavor in my life, assisting others in need of someone who can understand the emotional and physical consequences of an SCI. There’s no doubt that the Internet has a lot of information, although it’s not always the most accurate and there is only so much aid those around can offer. So that’s where help and stories from someone in that same position come in and offer support. Within this is the expectation that they can show some sympathetic and kindness where it’s needed most.

I’m very proud of all the things I’ve been able to do to help out others in my current situation.  I know from past speeches, mentoring, my blog and volunteering that my accomplishments and achievements have not gone unnoticed.  I’m going to continue expanding my knowledge and helping people in need. I reached out to a few different mentoring programs and am in the process of becoming a peer mentor for a couple of different organizations. 

If you know someone who is in need of a mentor or you are interested, please let me know by emailing me at: jtic20@gmail.com.

 Jenni

“Everybody can be great. Because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve.... You don't have to know the second theory of thermodynamics in physics to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”

-Martin Luther King Jr.

Speaking Again

The other day I spoke at Hopkins high school to a class called Peer Insights. I’m partial to speaking to them because I love the concept. It’s designed to integrate people with disabilities and their peers that gives insight to all types of situations. I was a junior in high school when I took the class (after my accident). We went on field trips, had guest speakers and did a lot of fun activities. This was the 3^rd time I spoke to this classroom; the last was in 2017.

During my speech, I shared my story and talked about the challenges I've been through and the obstacles I have overcome. I also spoke about how I continue to stay positive despite my situation and what I'm doing now. They had tons of questions and I showed them my vent and how I move my wheelchair. I only spoke for about ½ an hour, but it was enough time to get in everything I wanted to say.

It didn’t faze me that I hadn’t spoken in a couple years. I wasn’t nervous like I used to get when I first started speaking. I would like to get into doing it more often. I used to do a lot more speeches, especially when I was Ms. wheelchair Minnesota in 2011. Lately I haven’t really had the chance or the opportunity. Although now if asked, I would for sure accept the offer.

Jenni

Sharing My Story

I’m always flattered when other people ask to share my story. Whether it be my blog, another blog site, someone I just met, a person in a similar situation, a company, a classroom etc. I don’t mind it at all even if I have to tell it multiple times. I look at it as a way of inspiring others while gaining long-term friendships at the same time.

Since I started my own blog in 2008, I have received multiple comments and messages from around the world either sharing their story or telling me how I impacted them in some way. One example would be when I heard from a guy named Jia who lives in Singapore. Although our stories are different, he has the same injury level and also receives nursing care. Now we talk on occasion through Facebook.

A while back I received a comment from someone who lives in Scotland. He said "Hi there Jenni, I just wanted to say how amazing I think both you and your blog are. You seem like a great person and your blog has helped a lot since my mum was paralyzed 2 years ago, she's a C3 complete, so seeing someone with a similar injury is great for both of us. It hit my mum pretty hard getting injured and seeing other amazing women going through what she has really helped her. Thank you so much for writing it and sharing your story and life."

Aside from my own blog, I’ve also written blog posts for the Easystand blog, a company that supplied me with my first stander. I don’t use it anymore though now that my new wheelchair has the capability of standing itself. You can read multiple posts on their site although it’s currently undergoing construction.

Also, Pediatric Home Services asked me to write an article for their Thrive blog. PHS is a company that I order all of my supplies through for my medical equipment. I was excited to get a chance to write something for their blog, especially because they specialize with pediatric patients. I started with them when I was 16 years old after my accident and have continued into their care even though I’m an adult now. Click here in order to read the article.

As far as meeting others, one day I was taking my dog, Brody, for a walk. I ran into one of my neighbors, Rosie, who has 3 dogs and they all came barking towards him. It happened another time a couple days later so I stopped to talk and at that point I shared my story. Not soon after she remembered going to a silent auction for a girl who was just in an accident. Turns out it was me! We met about 5 years ago and since then we’ve become good friends and spend time together pretty much every week.

Another way that I spread my story throughout is by speaking. I’ve done multiple motivational speeches to different Schools and at events. All the way from kindergarten to high school kids along with coordinated organizations. In 2011, I won Ms. Wheelchair Minnesota which gave me a chance to also speak around the state.

I once received an email from a fireman. He told me that he remembered being at my accident and helping out. The way he heard more of my story is actually through his son who was in 3^rd grade at the time. Turns out he had come home from school one day telling his dad that someone in my situation came to his classroom and gave a speech. Somehow he figured out that it was me and we were able to get into contact. It was great to know that I made a difference in this little boy’s life along with a longtime memory of this fireman.

I’m sure there are many more stories like the ones I have shared that have happened and are going to in the future. I’ve always thought about writing a book about what happened to me and my journey throughout life, especially since I love to write. It would also create connections and hopefully bring joy along with inspiration to others.

Jenni

Having Strength

This sign hangs above my doorway. It just proves how strong I am just by the biblical meaning of my name!

I always thought of myself as being a strong person, especially after I had my accident. The strength that came about wasn’t just from physical or mental, but from others encouragement towards my recovery beyond. It gave me peace of mind knowing that there were people helping me to get through the tough processes that got me down. These are some of the reasons why it’s easier for me to help others in need get through theirs as well.

This is one of the main components to why I try my hardest to get out and do public speaking. To encourage others that no matter what happens, life can go on. That despite your current situation there may be other solutions to a problem. It brings me to my conclusion that things happen for a reason. I’ve always tried to maintain this positive outlook and share my presence in life.

I can’t even count how many times I’ve done public speaking events or spoken to others. My favorite is talking to kids; they have so many questions and are very curious. Plus I get to teach them at an early age that even though someone has a disability, it doesn’t mean they don’t have abilities as well. I have even gone back to my elementary, junior high and high school to speak.

My motto is to believe in the ability to figure things out. There will be a better tomorrow, even if it’s a struggle, be okay with it, and over time things will work out. By bringing the fun into the situation proactively, even if I have those feelings of doubt, I’m patient and allow myself to be persistent in my action as well as move past my struggles. While loving others in similar situations, I amplify and respect them; accept them for who they are and appreciate the differences.

Jenni

 

Back to Speaking

The other day I went to Hopkins High School and spoke to a class called Peer Insights. I took the same class when I was a junior there and it was by far my favorite. It is designed to integrate people with disabilities and their peers; it is a great concept that gives insight to all types of situations. When I took it, we went on field trips, had guest speakers and did a lot of fun activities. This was the first time I’ve done any public speaking since 2014 and it was also to a Peer Insights class.

This was the 2^nd time I went back to my high school since graduating and it still brings back memories. I was 16 and a sophomore at the time of my accident. After spending 6 months in the hospital I went back my junior year. It was difficult adjusting to being in a wheelchair along with attending classes and trying to make it through the long days. Although my positivity and determination surpassed everything and I was able to graduate on time with my class in 2005.

During my speech, I shared my story and talked about the challenges I've been through and the obstacles I have overcome. I also spoke about how I continue to stay positive despite my situation and what I'm doing now. They had tons of questions and I showed them my vent and how I move my wheelchair. Then I asked them to share their stories of any challenges or things in their life that they have gone through. It was interesting to hear what they had to say.

After I got done speaking, I started talking to a girl in the front row who was a senior. She asked what elementary school I went to. When I told her I went to Glen Lake, she stated that she went there too. After talking for a couple of minutes, she said she remembered me from when I spoke there in 2009 to a class of 3^rd graders and she was one of them!

Here is a post I did on my blog in 2011. They are similar stories that have happened in the past:

"I was at school the other day heading to my class when a guy stopped me in the hallway. He told me he remembered me from a speaking engagement I did three years ago. It was a 15 min. speech after a mock car crash to about 1200 students and faculty at Eastview high school. He was one of them.

I was kind of taken aback because I didn't expect it. He said that I inspired him that day. He also told me to keep speaking and sharing my story; that I'm amazing and inspirational. It felt really good to hear and know that I had touched somebody.

This reminds me of a similar story that took place a couple of years ago. I had spoken to a group of about 80 sixth-graders at Glen Lake elementary school. One of the students in particular had gone home that day and talked to his parents about my speech. He told them about me speaking and my story.

A couple of days after I had spoke, I received an e-mail from the boy's father. He told me that his son had come home talking about me. Then he said I don't know if you remember me, but I was one of the firemen that helped pull you out of the car that night. I came and visited you in the hospital afterwards.

Chills went through as I read those words over and over. I did remember him; he brought me a St. Christopher medal. He also said in the e-mail that him and his department still talk about that night. It's amazing the connections that we have in the world throughout life. I'm thankful every day that I'm alive and able to help others just by being me. I hope to have many more stories like this to share."

It turns out I did get another story out of what I do; that’s exactly the reason why I love speaking, sharing my journey and inspiring others. I have joy and happiness while knowing that I’m still here living my life out, despite what happened to me. It just goes to show that I have so much more to offer and I’m definitely going to keep spreading my message.

Jenni

Here's to the New Year

As I look back on 2011, I think about all of my accomplishments and the great opportunities that came about.

In April I was crowned Ms. Wheelchair Minnesota 2011. Throughout my reign so far I've given multiple speeches, attended some amazing events, and made an impact during our state shut down. I also met with the attorney general, Lori Swanson, and got a private tour of the capital. I'm grateful for the chance to help and inspire others and for this experience. With three more months to go in 2012, I hope to continue being a role model and making an impact on others.

In August I was able to take my first plane ride since my accident. It took a lot of planning, fundraising, and hard work but I did it and I'm so glad. I flew to Grand Rapids, Michigan to take place in the Ms. wheelchair America 2012 pageant where I received fourth runner-up. Another big accomplishment in my book!

I believe throughout 2011 I changed in ways I never thought I would. I became even more confident in myself. I switched up my wardrobe from casual tees, hoodies and sweats to jeans and business attire. My routine is different now; I stay up in my wheelchair 3 to 4 hours longer than I did before. I also found love in my life and have never been more happy than I am now! I continue to smile each day and look ahead to what the days and years coming will bring.

So here's to the new year-2012. May it bring more joy and fulfillment to my life. I hope to accomplish many more things and continue growing.

Jenni

Speeches Galore

Last Friday I spoke to three separate classes in a row at Armstrong high school. Each of them had about 15 to 20 students; it was a class called AVID which focuses on college and career goals. They needed a speaker directed towards motivation. I got some video this time and once I figure out how to edit it I will post it. I'm also going to be speaking tomorrow to three other classes at the same high school so maybe I'll get some more too.

It is difficult to speak to more than one class in a row. My voice gets hoarse by the last one. The good thing is I can see my improvement over the three. Then I know what things I should include and what I can leave out. It helps when they ask questions also because then I can figure out what they want to know.

I'm part of a program called BestPrep which has a bunch of different volunteer speakers. Here's a little info about it:

"BestPrep, a Minnesota nonprofit, engages 60,000 students in grades 4-12 each year in business, career and financial literacy education. More than 3,000 professional volunteers help BestPrep collaborate with educators to bridge classroom curriculum and the world of business outside of the classroom, enriching the teaching and learning experience.

BestPrep offers six experiential programs: Classroom Plus, eMentors, Financial Matters, Minnesota Business Venture, The Stock Market Game, and the Technology Integration Workshop.

BestPrep is a statewide, nonprofit organization with a mission to best prepare Minnesota students with business, career and financial literacy skills through experiences that inspire success in work and life."

I am part of the classroom plus program. Basically when a teacher needs a speaker, they will contact BestPrep and tell them what topic they need one for. The bureau will then look through their list of speakers and find one that fits that need then contact them. This is how I get most of my speaking engagements at local high schools.

I've been a part of it for about six years now. I think it's a very good way to get out there and gain experience. Now that I am Ms. Wheelchair Minnesota 2011 I've been speaking as that everywhere I go. I like using the title to help motivate kids to get out there and achieve their goals.

I'm hoping to get involved in many more events and speaking engagements throughout the rest of my reign. If you know of any or would like me to speak somewhere, let me know.

Jenni

Speaking to Kids

Yesterday I got a chance to speak to 3rd graders at my old elementary school. They were very receptive to me and asked a lot of questions. The most interesting ones were about my ventilator. They wanted to know how it worked, what everything was, and most importantly if it hurt. One little boy pointed to my nurse and said, "I have a question for you. Are you her doctor?" I guess it would be kind of interesting if I was able to bring my doctor everywhere I went.

Out of all of the different groups of people that I've talked to over the years, my favorite audience is kids. They are the most open and honest about their questions. They aren't afraid to say what they're thinking. Many kids (and adults) stare at people with disabilities. I believe that they are just curious and sometimes afraid of the unknown. It is my goal and passion to teach kids while at a young age that people with disabilities should be seen for the abilities that they have, not disabilities. To let them know that it is okay to be friends with someone who has a disability and that it's alright to ask questions. I thoroughly enjoy inspiring and teaching others.

Jenni

"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you're a leader."
-John Quincy Adams

It Went Good

Yesterday I spoke at a local high school to ninth graders. I shared my story to three separate classes and also talked about goal setting. I think it went good. The speeches got better each time I spoke. They also asked a lot of questions which helps me and helps the time to go by faster.

The only thing that I would change next time is not to speak to three one-hour classes in a row. I became very exhausted and I was starting to lose my voice by the last speech. I even had to have my mom talk a couple of times to give myself a break. I am excited for whatever opportunity comes up next.

Jenni

"Any change, any loss, does not make us victims. Others can shake you, surprise you, disappoint you, but they can't prevent you from acting, from taking the situation you're presented with and moving on. No matter where you are in life, no matter what your situation, you can always do something. You always have a choice and the choice can be power."
-Blaine Lee The Power Principle

Speaking Engagement

It's kind of ironic that while taking my public speaking class that I would get an opportunity to do a volunteer speaking engagement. This Friday I will be speaking at a local high school to ninth graders. I will be talking to three separate classes about goal setting. I'm not quite sure what I'm going to say yet. I have had to set many goals for myself in last six years and I know I can teach something about that topic.

I hope I will get many more opportunities to speak whether it's volunteering or not. I love to speak! I love being in front of an audience and telling my story and teaching others. It is the best feeling to know that you are doing something either to inspire or help others. That is why I want to become a professional motivational speaker. I already do motivational speaking, but most of it is volunteer. I would like to be well known and asked to speak at many events, schools etc. I will let you know how it went.

Jenni

"Whatever you can do, or dream you can... begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it."
-Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Spoken Words

Thursday, November 6 I spoke at Richfield high school. It was a great opportunity to strengthen my speaking skills and ability. I also made some connections and met some great students and teachers. I spoke to three separate classes in a row. The first class started at 9:17 and the last class ended at 12:12. Most of the students were in ninth grade. Each speech varied in its content and each class varied in students. Some students asked more questions than others, which usually makes it easier.

This speech was volunteer, and although I like to volunteer my time, I hope to one day get paid for every speech I do. It took a lot to get to Richfield high school by 9:10. I woke up at 4:30 in the morning to start my cares. I normally get up into my wheelchair sometime between 8:30 and 9 o'clock. Yesterday, I got into my wheelchair at 6:45. Yes, it was a very long day, but it was definitely worth it. I love speaking and sharing my story. It is nice to motivate others and it feels good to wow them with my positive attitude and my ability to overcome challenges. If any of you know of a place that would have me as a speaker, I could really use the experience. Even if they are not able to pay; let me know.

Jenni

"Motivation is everything. You can do the work of two people, but you can't be two people. Instead, you have to inspire the next guy down the line and get him to inspire his people."
-Lee Iacocca

Speaking Engagements

Hi everyone.

Back in July, I was the keynote speaker at a Spinal Cord Injury Research Symposium. Dr. Wise Young, a world renowned research scientist, was the featured speaker. Dr. Young is well known for his spinal cord injury research and clinical trials in China. The event was put on by the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund. They have now posted a video of the event, including my speech, on their website. It is at least two hours long. I encourage you to watch the whole thing because Dr. Young had some interesting information to share about spinal cord injury research and the progress they are making. Although, if you don't have the time, you can always fast-forward to the end to see me speak. To watch the video click here.

Also on the subject of speaking, I will be giving three speeches in a row next Thursday to three different classes at Richfield high school. I am part of a volunteer program called Best Prep. Although lately I have been getting paid for my speeches, it is nice to volunteer and get practice every once in a while. I will let you know how they go.

Jenni

"It is not so much the content of what one says as the way in which one says it. However important the thing you say, what's the good of it if not heard or, being heard, not felt."
-Sylvia Ashton-Warner