March 19, 2026

On March 7th, Elizabeth Seton Children's Center resident and our International Spokesperson and Volunteer, Stephanie, took the stage at Ms. Wheelchair New York and was named a 2026 Ms. Wheelchair New York Ambassador!

The Ms. Wheelchair competition elevates women who use wheelchairs and are making a difference through leadership, advocacy and education. Stephanie moved the judges with her life story and reflections on her deep faith, resilience and determination to better the lives of others.

Stephanie has called our children's center home for most her life, arriving for the first time at just three months old. Born with spina bifida and other serious medical challenges, she has undergone countless surgeries. Yet, for Stephanie, her life is not defined by adversity. Rather, she is a guiding light for her fellow residents and people with disabilities everywhere because she is living proof that their lives are full of possibilities.

In recent years, Stephanie has led the charge for the growing national crisis affecting young adults with complex medical needs who age out of pediatric long-term care at age 21, like her. She brought this issue to the forefront as her Ms. Wheelchair platform - anchored in her personal mission to make Elizabeth Seton Children's future young adult center a reality.

With construction now underway, Stephanie's commitment to this cause continues to illuminate the path forward.

Will you help us raise the $22 million needed to open the doors of our young adult center for Stephanie and her friends? To learn more and donate now, please visit setonchildrens.org/the-aging-out-crisis.