Life-altering tragedies can push people past what they can handle.
But for some, it gives them a new purpose in life.
In a remarkable journey of resilience, Marine Corps Veteran Brittany Elliott has defied all the odds and pushed herself past a car accident eight years ago that left her paralyzed.
But today, she walks, not just with the aid of technology but with an indomitable spirit that inspires everyone around her.
After a training accident led to a medical discharge from the Marines, she soon faced another challenge when the car she was driving was hit by a drunk person, leaving her a quadriplegic. Determined to regain her independence, Brittany discovered the ReWalk robotics exoskeleton, a groundbreaking device that has become a beacon of hope for many with spinal cord injuries.
“My mission is to spread awareness about this device,” Brittany, now 33, shares. “It’s not science fiction – it’s real life.”
Getting back on your feet and moving brings so much more to the table than just walking.”
Brittany’s journey to walking again began when she learned about the exoskeleton during a VA study. Her persistence paid off, and she spent 12 weeks training with the device, experiencing the freedom of movement she thought she had lost forever.
Brittany Elliott walks with her new exoskeleton. Photo by Kristi Koehler of Rewalk Robotics
“It allows me to walk,” she said, highlighting the transformative impact on her physical and mental well-being. The exoskeleton not only gave her mobility but also changed how people interacted with her. “When I’m in an exoskeleton, people will talk to me. They’re not afraid of it – despite the fact that it sounds like a robot.”
The positive changes in her health, both physical and mental, were undeniable. Improved bone density, bladder control, and weight loss were just a few of the benefits. However, the temporary nature of the study meant she had to give the exoskeleton back, a bitter setback in her journey.
“It was very cruel,” said her father, Morgan Elliott, her full-time caregiver.
Brittany’s fight for her own personal exoskeleton lasted four years, emphasizing the need for greater accessibility.
In April 2022, she finally secured her device and hasn’t looked back since. Her advocacy extends beyond personal gain, as she actively participates in events like the Congressional Football Game, taking her exoskeleton to places where disabled veterans gather to offer hope and awareness.
“No veteran should ever have to fight the battle I fought to get this technology,” Brittany said.
Would you want to fight for four years to get something that made such a difference in your life?”
Brittany’s zest for life knows no bounds. From Disney to Disabled American Veterans’ meetings, she takes her exoskeleton to places where fellow veterans can witness the possibilities. Her father attests to the transformative effect: “It’s life-changing. It truly is.”
Photo courtesy of the Elliot Family
Brittany’s commitment to an active life has redefined what’s possible for someone with her challenges. Parasailing in Hawaii and swimming with sea turtles in Aruba are just a couple of the adventures she shares with her father. Despite the initial shock of seeing the exoskeleton, he notes that people often compare her to a real-life transformer.
“I live a beautiful life,” Brittany said. “The wreck may have altered my life, but it didn’t end it. It taught me what things really matter. I knew that I could give up and die, or I could make life a stunning adventure.”
And Brittany, true to her spirit, chose the adventure. “It’s just getting started,” she said. “It’s getting better every day.”
Now, she’s telling her story to lawmakers in D.C., and working with other veterans to help make access to the exoskeleton more available for others
“My mission is to spread awareness about this device,” she said. “It’s not science fiction – it’s real life. Getting back on your feet and moving brings so much more to the table than just walking.”
For a look at this amazing veteran, watch below!
Source: People
