Cheyenne

Cheyenne was enjoying soccer camp with her friends and teammates, when suddenly, she started feeling ill. At first, she thought she had a common virus. After various health appointments, Cheyenne discovered that she had contracted one of the first cases of a rare, mysterious, polio-like illness that attacks the nervous system and spinal cord. Over time, the virus cost her the feeling and movement in her hands as well as other parts of her body. Regardless, ever the fighter, Cheyenne wouldn’t let her new circumstances hold her back!

Although Cheyenne can no longer use her hands, the staff at Ranken Jordan helped her learn to operate a motorized wheelchair with her foot and use a computer with the gaze of her eyes. Cheyenne’s motivation to live an active life has made her an extremely successful student and motivated young woman.

Cheyenne’s journey continued to college, further impacting the lives of those around her. An active leader on campus, she took on roles with various student organizations, the Disabled Athlete Sports Association, and a sorority! Cheyenne’s presence grows the minds of those around her. Eager to support and include their new sister, Cheyenne’s sorority took the initiative to learn how to assist her with ventilator and trach care so that she was not always dependent on an accompanying nurse.

Cheyenne has expressed hopes to go to law school and be an advocate for people with disabilities.