LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Michelle Fridley upon the occasion of
being named Ms. Wheelchair New York 2010

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
individuals with disabilities whose personal triumphs and extraordinary
spirit and determination are an inspiration to others; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Michelle Fridley upon the occasion of being named Ms. Wheelchair New
York 2010; and
WHEREAS, Michelle Fridley of Canandaigua, New York was injured in a
tragic automobile accident 10 years ago, which put her in a wheelchair
for the rest of her life when she was 23 years old and nine months preg-
nant; and
WHEREAS, Her daughter, Felicia, born nine days later, has been
Michelle Fridley's inspiration and motivation; from the day she was
born, Michelle Fridley has been determined and has done all she can to
arrange a life where she can raise her cherished daughter; and
WHEREAS, Michelle Fridley's experience over the years has transformed
her into an advocate for disability rights; in recognition of her
efforts Michelle Fridley was named Ms. Wheelchair New York 2010 and will
participate in the national pageant in Michigan in August; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Wheelchair is not a traditional beauty pageant; partic-
ipants are judged instead on their accomplishments, their advocacy, and
their self-perception; and
WHEREAS, Advocating for others as well as herself, in April Michelle
Fridley, along with 500 other advocates, traveled to Washington, D.C.,
getting up at 5:00 a.m. to line up to march and attend fundraisers and
rallies advocating, in particular, for home care for people with disa-
bilities and working on behalf of others undergoing the same struggle as
she; and
WHEREAS, Grateful for the help of her devoted mother, Pat Plyter, and
many generous friends, Michelle Fridley continues to raise her daughter,
who is sensitive to the disabled, and is working to earn a degree in
healthcare administration through the University of Phoenix's online
degree program; and
WHEREAS, Michelle Fridley encourages others with disabilities to learn
how they can help each other and help themselves; her passion for living
and for improving the quality of life for others with disabilities are
impressive and inspiring; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individ-
uals of such enduring courage and accomplishment are brought to our
attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens
of the great State of New York; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Michelle Fridley upon the occasion of being named Ms. Wheelchair
New York 2010 and to wish her well in all her future endeavors; and be
it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Michelle Fridley.