TBI One Love Survivor Kaylee Michelle

Hello everyone, my name is Kaylee Michelle. I am from Kentucky.

Growing up I was your average kid. I liked to sing, play with my sister, and I loved playing soccer. I played off and on since I was four years old, although it was difficult. When I was three I was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that effects the respiratory and digestive systems. Basically, people with CF have trouble digesting food and when we get sick our mucus is thicker than normal.

Much of any physical activity was difficult for me. I’ve never done well in the heat. My stomach starts to hurt, I start sweating, and my breathing gets heavy. Running on top of that made playing soccer even more difficult. I didn’t want to do it anymore. I come from a family of drag racers. My dad, papaw, uncles, and lots of friends.

Over the years some of my family has retired from racing, but I still enjoy going to watch my dad and uncle rick. When I was seven I decided I wanted to race. We got me a car, fire suit, helmet, and when I turned eight I was ready to race. March 31, 2007 was the day. It was my turn to make my first time trial down the track. My dad stood by me at the starting line and my Papaw Ronnie stood waiting for me at the end of the track. I was making my way down the track and I was grinning from ear to ear. I must’ve been excited and not paying attention because when I got to the end of the track getting ready to turn off instead of pressing the brakes to slow down I hit the gas and I then crashed right into a concrete wall!

I was flown by helicopter to Kosair Children’s Hospital in Louisville where I was in critical condition. I suffered from a C1-C2 subluxation. The top two bones in my neck were dislocated. Thankfully with the help of amazing doctors and by the grace of God I was given another chance at life, but it hasn’t been easy.

Fast forward to now: 2025, it’s 18years later and I’m still here! I like hanging out with friends and family, being outside (when it’s nice of course), going camping, and watching Netflix. I’ve had many ups and downs over the years, and I continue to face obstacles.

This may not be the life I imagined of having but that’s okay. I have an awesome family, amazing friends, I’m healthy, and I get to tell my story to others. I’m told I am an inspiration to so many people and that’s what I am meant to do. It’s all for God’s glory!!!

Thank you TBI One Love for helping us make a positive difference.