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Rising Stars: Meet Emily Lincoln of Virginia

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Lincoln.

emily, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Emily, i’m 23 years old and I attempted my life when I was 18 years old.
After an abusive relationship, financial issues, and addiction, I didn’t see my life going anywhere. Being bipolar affected my mental health for years, as well as losing family members the same way.
In 2022, I attempted my life by jumping from a parking garage. I broke my spine, pelvis and both my feet. I woke up in the hospital paralyzed from the waist down. I spent 6 months of my life relearning to walk. Check in on your friends and loved ones, it might change things for them.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
While relearning to walk I was transferred to a physical therapy location on the outskirts of Richmond. It was very difficult being so far from my family and visitors. Being so alone in such a scary big place was really difficult. I often felt discouraged with my progress. At the time I was only 19 at the hospital, I spent a birthday there, holidays, and i missed so much. I wanted everything to go back to normal rapidly, but that was not the case.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Now, I spend most of my time putting energy into my small business Reloved Rack. A small secondhand and upcycled storefront online, as well as popping up at local 757 flea markets. I spend a lot of time on my sewing machine, in thrift shops, and sourcing fabrics. Giving me a sense of purpose which i thought i’d lost.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
That depression is a really scary feeling that way too many individuals get stuck in. You have to pull yourself out, ask for help, reach out to loved ones.

Contact Info:

Person standing indoors near large windows with trees outside, text about September as National Suicide Prevention Month, 20 words.

X-ray image of a pelvis with metal implants and a rod, with text overlay reading 'In 2022 I attempted my life'.

Person with leg in a cast and brace, lying in bed, with text about paralysis for six months.

Person taking a mirror selfie in a bathroom, holding a phone, with text overlay about injury and a quote. Word count: 27

Person wearing sunglasses and an orange backpack, holding a walking aid outdoors, with text overlay about relearning to walk.

Person taking a mirror selfie in a room with posters on the wall, wearing a white t-shirt and black pants, with text

Person taking mirror selfie with crutches, wearing a pink top and baggy jeans, in a room with colorful decor.

Person's arm with IV line, lying on a bed, with text about healing bone infections and missing pieces from family.

Person's foot with a pinky toe visible, lying on a bed with a blanket and pillow, in a room with a TV. Word count: 20

Person lying in a hospital room with legs elevated, wearing medical boots, with a bowl of broccoli and a spoon in foreground.

Person holding hands with a dog on a bed, with text saying 'We all matter, you matter'.

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