Aimee Copeland, a graduate student in psychology at the University of Georgia, faced a tragic accident in 2012 when she attempted to ride on a homemade zip line with her friends.
The accident resulted in Aimee suffering from an incredibly rare flesh-eating bacterial disease called necrotizing fasciitis which ultimately caused all four of her limbs to be amputated.
Instead of giving up, Aimee chose to fight for her life and never give up.
She has since become an advocate for those with disabilities as well as continuing her education by pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology at the University of West Georgia, proving that success is possible even during the most difficult times.
Recently, Aimee celebrated her journey of body acceptance and love with a joyful photo taken while vacationing in Puerto Rico where she proudly displayed all of her scars and amputations without hesitation or shame – inspiring others to do the same and love their bodies no matter what “flaws” they may have.
In May 2012, 24-year-old Aimee Copeland decided to take part in an activity along with some friends – riding on a homemade zip line found in a Carrollton creek.
Unfortunately, this decision was met with disastrous consequences when the wire snapped during Aimee’s second turn causing her to crash into sharp rocks below resulting in deep cut on her calf that required 22 surgical staples for closure upon arrival at hospital.
Though it appeared that things had been resolved after this initial incident three days later blood blisters started forming on Aimee’s left leg accompanied by a shriveled tongue making it impossible for speech.
This indicated something much more serious than expected: necrotizing fasciitis – an incredibly rare flesh-eating bacterial disease that can quickly become fatal if not treated properly.
With such dangerous condition threatening Aimee’s life, doctors saw fit to amputate all four limbs (right leg, left foot and both hands) so as to improve chances for survival – leaving the young woman permanently disfigured.
Nevertheless instead of succumbing into understandable depression brought about by tragedy, Aimee chose to courageously face whatever challenges were ahead by documenting her recovery process on social media channels while also engaging in public speaking engagements aimed at inspiring others not lose hope during difficult times.
Her story provides us all a reminder to continue to strive towards our dreams, setting aside limiting beliefs based on the preconceived notions beauty standards that society imposed us.