Bethany Richter

I don't have to always worry about how others perceive me - I love me just the way that I am!! I'm comfortable in my own skin. I'm living my own life. I never thought I'd be back in my hometown, but here I am! And it's ok if I need a little bit of help due to the chair - I have lots of family and friends, both old and new, close by. I also have a great boyfriend [that I don't need my mom's permission to date =) ]. What's not to love??

First and foremost, I do my best to look my best because the better you look the better you feel. [I've learned a little makeup never hurt once in a while either]. I'm also a volunteer with the local hospice chapter, as well as helping out whenever I can. I try to be a role model for my nieces because I feel it's important for them to be able to look up to their aunt. I also try to keep up with research on several health topics and other issues that are important to me and others as women.

Probably put it towards a new wheelchair accessible vehicle. These vehicles are much more expensive than your average vehicle because of the extra equipment that is packed into them. Therefore, it's a challenge to afford even a used one when they break down. However, they're a necessary expense in order to be able to access basically anything outside the home, including volunteer work, appointments, and contact with friends and family. $40,000 would help a lot towards the purchase of one.