In 2006 I walked across the threshold of the Ms. Wheelchair VA Pageant as a volunteer. In 2010 I walked across the threshold as a judge. Opening my heart to the less forunate opened my life to amazing adventures.

Judging is not a task to be taken lightly; it is a very serious obligation. As one of three judges, the experience changed my life.  It opened my eyes to see past the physical and into the heart of these incredible women. Each women was a winner -- she rolled across her theshold of fear and rolled away a more confident women.

Niki Swann was crowned Ms. Wheelchair VA 2010-2011. She will represent the state of Virginia with her platfrom: Breaking Down Stereotypes to Build Opportunities. Her motto of inspiration: Accept No Boundaries.

From volunteer to preparing my sister for the Ms. Wheelchair MD 2007 pageant  to writing her memoir My Sister My Hero Cathy Porter Ms. Wheelchair MD 2007 to writing a column for www.examiner.com, to being honored as a judge at the Ms. Wheelchair VA Pageant.  The ADVENTURES have never ceased to amaze me. And it all started when I volunteered!

Since I took on the title of Richmond Disability Examiner, I have learned so much about ALL disability resources in Richmond, VA.  For four years I was focused on the wheelchair user, now I am focused on ALL disabilities.

VOLUNTEERING changes lives. If you volunteer and your life isn't changed, you left your heart outside the door.

Nancy Carey

www.nancycarey.colm