Interview with Wellness Voice Magazine:

July 19, 2024 Kelly J. Mendehall

Transforming Trauma: The Inspirational Journey of Kelly J. Mendenhall

How has your personal journey with chronic illness and disability influenced your work as an artist and advocate?

I am a once bio-typical and non-disabled person who is now physically and psychologically disabled permanently as a result of a little bit of crappy genetics and years of medical gaslighting and lack of access to care. I have deep empathy for how alienated and unincluded the world can make a Spoonie or other disabled person feel at times. I read once that non-disabled people have the luxury of life without choice. They may not understand the feelings of embarrassment that come with not having the money for non-essentials, not being able to attend public events and concerts safely and comfortably, not feeling safe to participate without the company of friends, and not knowing where to begin when the one-millionth person tells you that perhaps picking up a hobby would help you pass the time. I deeply understand this type of existence, which makes me a safe space for my target audience.

Kelly J. Mendenhall, Wellness Voice Interview