MISS GUATEMALA
From the moment of my birth , I was a girl who was constantly diagnosed with little chance of life because I was born with myelomeningocele . I had a different childhood , one that , due to my constant health problem , resulted in educational institutions from elementary school to university , denying me access to education . In addition , until seven years ago , I had two homes in my life : 30 percent of the time I was at home and the remaining 70 percent in the hospital .
I have lived surrounded by angels who have supported me unconditionally for a little more than 31 years . Above all , I thank God for the strength he has planted in me and my mother because , without these essential elements , none of what I am now would be the reality that I walk and forge every day .
Before my second birthday , I underwent my first surgery . Since that moment I have used orthopedic devices to help me walk . Unfortunately , the operation did not help to correct the issues but rather worsened my situation . When I was 11 , I began using crutches for support as the orthopedics had caused damage to my legs and my balance was poor . The most complicated part began six years later when , at 17 , I was diagnosed with osteomyelitis in both lower extremities . This began my life as a wheelchair user . At the time , my situation was severe , with hospital visits intermittent for a period lasting 48 months .
Due to the severity of my condition I made one of the most difficult decisions of my life : to sign the authorization to have both legs amputated . I was 21 years old . Many did not agree with my decision . Others argued that it was a cowardly choice . From their point of view , I was taking an easy way out . But after spending so much time at risk , what could others know of the physical and emotional pain someone in my situation goes through ?
I remember with amusement , that when I woke I felt happy and the first thing I said to the nurses was , “ I am not sick anymore , it won ’ t hurt anymore !” Unfortunately , my belief the hard part was over , was wrong . A couple of months after surgery I had a relapse . While I was receiving physiotherapy to start using prostheses , I injured myself resulting in nearly two years in the hospital .
I look back and I can say that this road has had many obstacles but I have persevered . I overcame two septic shocks , eight surgeries , constant discrimination and rejection , However , in return I have received so much strength , love , support and countless blessings , which have all brought me here today .
I am Maria : a Guatemalan publicist and communicator , a woman with a motor disability and wheelchair user , an introverted woman who loves life , who chose to be strong
and who even with adversity , has not stopped at achieving each of her dreams .
I know we all go through situations that weaken us and constantly put us to the test , but our faith and self-love are the essential ingredients that fill us with strength . It happened to me . It has been many hard years . Being born with a disease and adapting to live with it is not easy , but every day I realize how strong I am and how much I am worth .
54 Miss Wheelchair World USA