A Conversation with Ms. Wheelchair USA
Beryl Holzbach Answers a Few Questions About Her Experiences
Feb 3, 2009
On August 9, 2008, Beryl Holzbach, a 45-year-old native of Mechanicsville, VA, was selected from a group of diverse and talented women as the first national titleholder of the Ms. Wheelchair USA program.
Beryl was gracious enough to answer some questions for Suite and tell us about her reign so far and things yet to come. In the first of two articles, she explains her reasons for entering the pageant and what was involved.
What is your disability?
I was born with a spinal defect that caused paralysis from the waist down.
What is your occupation?
I am an Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) Analyst, which basically means I work with businesses to implement and monitor processes that enable them to send and receive documents electronically instead of on paper. An example would be the electronic transmission (via the internet) of purchase orders, invoices, medical claims, inventory reports, etc. My last employer was Circuit City Stores, Inc. The company is liquidating and I am currently seeking future employment opportunities.
What first made you decide to try for Ms. Wheelchair Virginia and how did you apply/win?
My Mother-In-Law saw an article in our county newspaper (The Mechanicsville Local) and asked me to apply. I initially did not want to do it but she was persistent. She won out in the end and I am glad she did. I sent an email to the Ms. Wheelchair USA organization requesting an application. The application process was such an affirmation to me. Part of the application requested that we write about our accomplishments. It made me realize just how fortunate I am to have succeeded in so many aspects of my life and how fortunate and blessed I am to be surrounded by so many loved ones.
What was your platform and why did you choose it?
Breast cancer education and advocacy for all, especially those with disabilities. I chose this platform because I am an 8-year breast cancer survivor. Because of my disability there were unique challenges in my diagnosis and treatment. I would like to offer my experiences so that they may help someone who is similarly diagnosed.
What was the pageant weekend like for you?
It was awesome! Cuyahoga Falls welcomed me and the other contestants with open arms. We attended a music festival and had dinner with the Mayor. The day prior to the Ms. Wheelchair USA Pageant we attended sessions on public speaking, stress reduction and even received tips on how to do our make up. The best part of the weekend was meeting and socializing with the other contestants. It was a wonderful feeling to be surrounded by so many beautiful and talented women, their families and friends.
What did you feel when you heard your name announced as the first-ever Ms. Wheelchair USA?
I was absolutely shocked! When it came down to Romanda Walker (Ms. Missouri) and me, I thought for sure I would be the runner up. In fact, I was amazed that I had made it that far. All the contestants had great platforms and looked so beautiful in their evening dresses. I am so glad that I wasn’t one of the judges that had to make a decision. Then I noticed my family cheering me on and felt really proud that I was able to do this for them as much as for me.
For more information on the Ms. Wheelchair USA program, click here.
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