Defying the Odds: Jelynn Walks at Her Wedding

March 27, 2025

Hanger Clinic

Jelynn learned to navigate life in a wheelchair after a devastating accident left her paralyzed. Refusing to let her circumstances define her future, Jelynn was determined to defy the odds and walk down the aisle at her wedding. Through perseverance and the support of orthotic leg braces, she achieved her dream, showcasing the incredible strength that can arise from adversity and overcoming challenges.

Growing Up

Jelynn’s love for running blossomed early in life. She competed in cross-country and track throughout high school, eventually transitioning to collegiate running while pursuing a degree in exercise science. Her days revolved around rigorous training, exhilarating competitions, and dreaming about the future.

“Running was everything to me,” Jelynn recalls. “It wasn’t just a sport—it was a large part of my identity.”

A Life-Altering Accident

In 2021, Jelynn’s world shifted dramatically. She had just completed her master’s program and was working through an internship when the unthinkable happened. Driving home after visiting her boyfriend, now fiancé, Will, her car hit a patch of water on a bridge and hydroplaned.

“There was a pool of water, and I hit it at the worst possible spot. I started hydroplaning, heading straight for a semi-truck. I cranked the wheel hard to the passenger side—instinctively trying to minimize the impact,” said Jelynn.

The crash was devastating. Jelynn woke up in the backseat of her car, unable to feel her legs. Her dog Mila sat shivering beside her. “I kept saying, ‘It’s okay,’ trying to reassure us both.”

Jelynn was rushed to the hospital and later received heartbreaking news: she had a broken spine and was paralyzed. “The doctor came in and said, ‘You’re paralyzed. You’re probably not going to walk again.’”

Jelynn was in shock. It was hard to process at first. And then she said to herself, “Okay, this is the situation—what can I control?”

Finding Strength Through Challenge

Determined not to let her disability derail her life, Jelynn refused to give up on her aspirations. She continued her education, returned to the gym, and embraced each day with resilience. Through it all, Will stood by her side—eventually proposing, and Jelynn joyfully accepted.

“I’ve learned that life doesn’t always go the way you planned, but it can still be beautiful,” Jelynn shares. “There were moments I had to pause, grieve, and heal emotionally. Then I’d pick myself up and move forward again.”

A Wedding Dream Takes Shape

Jelynn’s dream of walking down the aisle at her wedding motivated her to try. She connected with the Hanger Clinic, where she met prosthetist/orthotist Darrin Helms, CPO.

Jelynn said, “From the start, I knew I wanted to walk at my wedding. But with just nine months to prepare, I wasn’t sure if it was realistic. Darrin encouraged me, and together, we designed hip-knee-ankle-foot braces tailored to my needs.”

Darrin explains, “The brace had to be sturdy enough to support Jelynn yet discreet enough to fit beneath her wedding dress. It was a delicate balance. We created a brace custom-made to fit her measurements and her needs.”

The process was emotional and challenging. “The first time I stood up, I felt like I was reclaiming part of myself,” Jelynn said. “When one approach didn’t work, Darrin would patiently try another.

There were frustrations, but his determination to make my dream come true was unwavering. I was so blessed to work with him. Darrin listened to my needs and frustrations and helped to try to make my dreams come true.”

While preparing for her big day, Jelynn faced another heartbreak—her father’s unexpected passing. Mourning his loss deeply, she resolved to honor his memory by fulfilling her vision of walking down the aisle.

A Moment of Triumph

On her wedding day, Jelynn’s dedication paid off. As the doors opened, she stood at the end of the aisle, her braces hidden beneath her gown. Will, her family, and friends were stunned.

Tears filled Will’s eyes as Jelynn walked toward him, each step a testament to resilience and love. In that moment, she honored her father and proved that even when life doesn’t go the way you planned, it’s possible to find beauty amid adversity.

Life Today

Today, Jelynn uses her braces at home to stand, share hugs with her 6’4” husband, and occasionally cook. Though she primarily relies on her wheelchair, the opportunity to stand has brought her closer to her loved ones and allowed her to rediscover moments of joy.

“I know I’ll spend most of my life in a wheelchair,” Jelynn reflects, “but these braces have given me so much—a chance to walk, hug Will, and explore possibilities I never thought possible. Life is full of challenges, but finding strength and community can change everything. My husband, family, and Darrin have been an incredible support system.”

Jelynn’s message to others is simple yet profound: “Give yourself grace. When something doesn’t work out, pivot and make changes. I’m still working out, driving, and embracing every moment. I can’t wait to see where life takes me.”