Daily Inspiration: Meet Emma Bailey

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emma Bailey

Hi Emma, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
On May 25, 2018 I was in a terrible car accident, leaving me paralyzed from the chest down. Only a senior in high school with my whole life ahead of me, I would now have to adapt to life in a wheelchair. I had no idea if I was going to go to college, drive, or ever live a normal life again. Little did I know, God was going to use me inspire others and to bring people to know Him.

After three months in the hospital and one full year of outpatient physical therapy, I moved out of my parents’ house and started school at Meredith College. I had the time of my life creating memories, making forever friendships, and becoming more independent. Since before my accident, I knew I’d want to study abroad in college. As a wheelchair user, I knew how challenging it would be, but I was up for it. I got the opportunity to spend a month in London, United Kingdom my junior year of college.

That trip truly opened my eyes to how inaccessible the world is and how hard it is for wheelchair users to travel. Now I document my trips and travel tips on Instagram and in my blog, “All For Good.” My goal is to encourage others in wheelchairs to get out and see the world, even if it’s challenging.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Life in a wheelchair is not easy. I’m reminded of my disability everyday by the inaccessibility of the world. But with every challenge I face, God makes a way. One example that comes to mind is when I was visiting The Trevi Fountain in Rome. There were stairs to get down to the edge of the fountain so I just assumed I wouldn’t be able to get close since it was just me and my friend. But God showed me His goodness by sending two kind men to offer to carry me down the stairs.

I hope these challenges I face will bring light to the issue of inaccessibility to non-disabled people. Who knows, maybe a ramp will get added to The Trevi Fountain so future disabled guests can enjoy it too.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a content creator and travel blogger. I specialize in accessible travel and strive to encourage people with disabilities to see the world. I’m most proud of my blog I’ve created. I write about all my trips I take, highlighting accessibility. As a wheelchair user, I have a very unique perspective on life and of the world. I never realized how inaccessible the world is until I started using a wheelchair. I know there’s many others who can relate to my experiences.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that God’s plan is better than my own. I would have never chosen to be paralyzed in a car accident, but I wouldn’t change a thing. His plans are for our good, and not to harm those who love Him. I’ve grown so much as a person over the past seven years. So many amazing opportunities gave come my way that never would have happened without my accident. I’m excited to see what’s next.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://emmbai1013.wixsite.com/mysite
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_c_bailey?igsh=MXY0M3lhbHNsdzN3eA==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010133491758