The Crown definitely motivated me and got me out of my shell, and pushed me to really start doing things, I speak about my life and my experiences and my story I've been really vulnerable throughout this whole pageant process.

And I think that is why people come up to me and say, you changed my life.

I am Kate Arvidson.

I was miss Wheelchair Alaska USA 2024. my platform title was Moving Beyond Surviving to thriving.

what I talk about is the connection between disability and mental health.

I try to bring to people's attention how mental health for people with disabilities can look a little bit different than, people who are not disabled.

I've been able to target conferences and, get that message out there and people like literally start thinking, I never thought about it that way before.

it's lonely and kind of hopeless.

one of the big things was losing my ability to work.

I worked with kids with mental health problems.

in a residential setting.

I mean, these were tough kids.

But I really loved that work.

For me, it turned in to a really significant depression.

actually, until probably about 3 or 4 years ago, I started pulling myself out of it because I got mental health treatment.

being able to come at it from both perspectives, which I have, helps educate other providers.

How do you have hope.

and then learning how to take care of myself and redefining my purpose.

I'm doing everything I can.

To be involved in the community and to to help others understand.

And that brings me meaning and purpose and joy.

I want to, take my abilities and my strengths and share those with the world