What are your best qualities?
As the CEO and founder of Rollettes & Rollettes Experience, I am deeply committed to empowering women and children with disabilities, creating spaces where everyone feels included and celebrated. My passion for creativity drives me to craft engaging content and lead inspiring events like the Rollettes Experience. Balancing my professional life with family time is crucial, as I cherish moments with my daughter and loved ones. I strive to motivate and uplift others through thoughtful communication and personal stories, always aiming for growth in our marketing and fundraising efforts. Together, we’re making a difference, one step at a time.
Do you have any undesirable qualities?
I sometimes take on more than I can handle, driven by the belief that I can do everything. In my constant pursuit of what's next, I often overlook the importance of pausing to appreciate how far I've come.
What is one quality you wish shined brighter than your exterior appearance?
One quality I wish shined brighter than my exterior appearance is my unwavering resilience. It's the inner strength that fuels my passion for empowering others and drives me to overcome challenges. I hope this resilience inspires those around me to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they face.
Tell us the story behind your scars...
When I was 17, I was a passenger in a drunk driving accident, which left me with a spinal cord injury and paralyzed from the belly button down. This scar isn't just about the physical stuff—it's about how I've grown and found strength through it all. It reminds me of how truly strong the human body is. I may not be able to walk, but I don't need to walk to really live my life to the fullest.
How has your relationship changed with your scars over the years?
When I first discovered the size of my scar, I was so embarrassed and hated it, wishing I could find a way to make it disappear. But over the years, it transformed into a badge of strength, a testament to overcoming something that tried to take my life. I feel incredibly lucky to be alive, especially since I've lost 11 friends over the past 15 years to distracted driving and other tragedies. My scar serves as a constant reminder to live for them and cherish every moment.
What do your scars represent to you now?
My scar symbolizes resilience and strength. It's a testament to overcoming challenges and living life to the fullest, its a reminder of my journey and my determination to thrive despite adversity.
Describe your journey with body acceptance...
Over the past 15 years, I've experienced a whirlwind of emotions in accepting my body for what it is. Initially, I felt embarrassed to show my atrophied legs and struggled with weight gain as a wheelchair user. But embarking on my fitness journey brought me peace, as I discovered incredible inner strength. Carrying my daughter and working out twice a week at 7 AM until I was 37 weeks pregnant has instilled a new sense of pride in my disabled body. Today, I can genuinely say I'm truly proud of my disabled body.
What do you love the most about your body?
What I love most about my body is its resilience and strength. Despite the challenges it has faced, my body has carried me through so much, including the incredible journey of motherhood. It's a constant reminder of my inner strength and ability to adapt, and I cherish the pride and confidence it brings me every day.
What is something you wish you could have told yourself at your most fragile state?
At my most fragile state, I wish I could have told myself that it's okay to feel vulnerable and uncertain. Embracing those feelings is part of the healing process. I would remind myself that strength isn't just about physical ability but also about the courage to face challenges head-on. Trust in your resilience and know that brighter days are ahead, and you will emerge stronger and more empowered than ever.
How do you incorporate self-love into your routine?
I incorporate self-love by scheduling it into my busy life, and I'm okay with that. It includes setting aside time for myself to enjoy a massage, get my nails and hair done, and hit the gym. While these are external activities, they make me feel good and are essential for my well-being.
What about self-love are you continuing to work on?
I'm continuing to work on embracing self-compassion and patience. It's a journey to fully accept that progress takes time and that it's okay to have setbacks. I'm also focusing on prioritizing my needs without guilt and reminding myself that self-love is not a destination but an ongoing practice. Balancing my busy life with moments of self-care is something I'm continuously striving to improve.
What lesson do you hope to instill in your children about self-love & body acceptance?
I hope to instill in my children the lesson that self-love and body acceptance are about embracing who they are, inside and out. I want them to understand that their worth isn't defined by appearance but by their character, kindness, and resilience. It's important for them to appreciate their unique qualities and treat themselves with compassion and respect. I hope they learn to celebrate their bodies for all they can do and approach life with confidence and self-assurance.
What makes you the happiest in the world?
What brings me the greatest happiness is watching my daughter grow and thrive, the family my husband and I are building, and cherishing true quality time with friends. Additionally, the joy of nurturing and expanding my business adds a huge sense of fulfillment to my life.
What is the best compliment you've ever received?
The best compliment I've ever received was when someone told me that my journey and resilience have inspired them to embrace their own challenges with courage and hope. Knowing that my story has the power to uplift others and encourage them to live boldly is incredibly fulfilling. It reminds me that sharing my experiences can create a ripple effect of positivity and empowerment in the world.
