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Tameka Citchen
Ms. Wheelchair Michigan 2006
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Hello America, my name is Tameka Citchen and I’m the new Ms.
Wheelchair. It’s my great honor and pleasure to represent Michigan in the
National Ms. Wheelchair competition. My story is unique as well as
inspirational and I hope it will help you carry on. So here it goes. |
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At first my mom didn’t know she was pregnant. She was surely
surprised and on January 25, 1985, I came into the world, 6 pounds and 5 oz.
I was born “normal” however, two days before the Fourth of July in 1985; I
was in an automobile accident. The accident smashed my ribs and punctured my
lungs. After my mom took me home I had a severe fever and I stopped moving
my legs. My mom took me back to the hospital and the doctors found out that
I had a T2 level Spinal Cord Injury. |
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Of course, my mom was devastated and didn’t know how she was
going to raise me on her own. However, her faith in God and in me
continually gave strength into my life, which greatly allowed me to overcome
many hurdles. Due to the paralysis, I’ve had severe asthma attacks that
almost took my life. One time, when I was 7 years old, I almost died and my
mom asked God to spare my life. Thanks to the Lord, I never had a severe
asthma attack again, that was one of many miracles. |
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During my childhood, I had a dream of making it big. I saw my
name in lights, literally. I wanted to be famous and be used by God. In my
teenage years, I wasn’t always so positive. I knew I was different and I had
issues with myself. I was a triple minority, disabled, female and black.
There weren’t any women on TV that looked like me. I struggled to see my own
beauty and self-worth. However, I relied on my faith and my mom to carry me
through. |
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Now, being 21, I learned to love and accept myself. I know
God has a purpose for my life, my living isn’t in vain. Presently, I’ve
accomplished many of my dreams which are: acting in theatre, owning a
production company, writing a play, becoming a radio DJ, inspiring young
people and now becoming Ms. Wheelchair Michigan. |
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I want everyone to know that we’re all created for a purpose
and we will be given the strength, talent and ability to be whatever we were
destined to be. Always keep your head up and keep on believing in your
dreams.
Tameka Citchen |
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