When you hear the name Lizzy O, real name Elizabeth Oke Omoragbon, the first thing that runs through your mind is ‘the wheelchair lady’ or the ‘DIY lady.’ Yes! She is in a wheelchair, but she sits so pretty, confident, and happy.
Lizzy O is a Nigerian blogger and photographer living in Texas, United States.
She got married to her heartthrob, Dr. Amen Omoragbon, in 2016. She makes use of a wheelchair for mobility, and she doesn’t let it stop her from dressing how she wants, nor does she let it stop her from living a fulfilling life.
Her story of hope on BellaNaija.com from 2011, where she narrated her experience(s) from before and after the car accident in 2008, which broke her spinal cord. She sounded a loud message: ‘Life is short! ‘Don’t wait for later…do what you have to do now! Love, live, learn.
According to Lizzy, she wasn’t drinking and driving, nor was she speeding or doing any of the road don’ts. Yet, the accident happened. This goes to show that most of the time we have no control over the things that happen in our lives. You cannot be too careful. Whatever will be, will be!
She spent time in rehab and relearned even the most basic functions, such as brushing her teeth, combing her hair, and eating. She had to adjust to life as a paraplegic.
But despite all these challenges, Lizzy still expresses herself and serves as an inspiration to many with her blogging and fashion sense. She believes in making the most of every moment and in treasuring the people God has put around you.
With her experience, she now advocates for wheelchair accessibility in public buildings in Nigeria. She found that during a trip to Nigeria, it was difficult to get around because most buildings had many flights of stairs and no elevators, making no provision for those on wheelchairs.
Liz’s husband, Amen, who had been ‘friend-zoned’ before the accident, kept telling her that he wanted to be with her. Lizzy was more reluctant, seeing that she was going through a major life change. But Amen was persistent; he had seen beyond the physical challenges and wanted Liz as a life partner. Lizzy stands as an inspiration today because she didn’t allow her circumstances to place a lid on her dreams, joys, or hopes.
Lizzy’s story should make us all realize that you can push beyond the limitations that surround you. There’ll never be a perfect season in life. You will find yourself faced with challenges at different phases. Everyone has challenges, but those who stand out from the crowd keep pushing despite it all.
No matter what you are facing, let Liz’s story of courage, persistence, and hope inspire you to keep pushing. She is a huge inspiration and a source of strength.