“Wheelchairs are sexy!” was my Facebook status the other day (a line stolen from Stephen Hopkins from 3E LOVE).

Wheelchairs are sexy. FACT.

The comments on Facebook were GREAT! Most of those who reacted are wheelchair users- ALL confirmed their sexiness and added exclamation marks and cyber winks.

It’s good to see the confidence, just as it should be. Wheelchairs and walkers and canes are not just for the wrinkled and withered. They come in colors and styles, slimmer and sleeker to fit individual lifestyles… some are really cool and reflect those who use them all day.

Big wheels. Stickers. Bad-ass spokes. Patterns. Graffiti.

I remember when I was first injured and said to myself “I’m going to be the best-dressed chick in a wheelchair.” Dresses and great shoes! I wouldn’t say I’m the best-dressed, but I have to recognize, I do pretty good when I try! It’s those days when I try that I feel the best about myself. I’m more productive and I want to be around good people. And this reminds me of Jessica Greenfield.

After Jessica was injured her stay at Shriner’s consisted of rehab and sweatpants, like most of us. It wasn’t until she woke up one morning, showered, put on her sexy jeans and makeup that she felt like the Jessica she has always been. She was still that normal teenage girl that just wanted to wear cute clothes and flirt with boys. She started GLAHM Camp at Shriner’s Hospital with the purpose of bringing together girls with SCI and teaching them about healthy living, self-esteem, self-advocacy.

I had the opportunity to participate as a mentor and realized how important the way you perceive yourself is. You can have the coolest chair and put together a snazzy outfit but if you don’t see your sexiness, others won’t either. It’s been a long road to embrace my body, accept it, trust it and allow others to find it beautiful.

Boys and Girls, I got my sexy back! Get yours!