Siskin Hospital announces that Victoria Arlen will be the guest speaker for the 20th Annual “Possibilities: Siskin Hospital Celebrates Life Beyond Disability” luncheon on Tuesday, March 21, at 11 a.m. The event will be held at the Chattanooga Convention Center and will also be live-streamed for those who are unable to attend in person.
Ms. Arlen is an ESPN on-air personality, actress, speaker, model, Dancing with the Stars contestant, and Paralympic athlete and medalist. At the age of 11, Ms. Arlen developed two rare medical conditions: transverse myelitis and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, which caused her to lose the ability to speak, eat, walk, or move. Many doctors were doubtful that she would recover, as she spent nearly four years in a vegetative state, "locked" inside her own body, fully aware yet unable to communicate with her surroundings. After doctors prescribed medication to reduce her seizures, Ms. Arlen was able to communicate with her family by blinking her eyes in response to their questions.
With renewed hope, Ms. Arlen began the seemingly impossible fight to regain her life. Join us to hear about her journey to reclaim her life beyond disability as she shares the inspiring message behind her personal motto: "Face It, Embrace It, Defy It, Conquer It!"
"Possibilities" will also feature inspirational videos highlighting the daily miracles that take place at Siskin Hospital as patients learn to overcome disability. As these miraculous stories unfold before our eyes, we realize that with hope, life can be full of possibilities, said officials.
“Possibilities” is the only community-wide fundraising event for Siskin Hospital. The proceeds go toward its Charity Care Funds, which provide services for patients without adequate insurance coverage for the cost of their care. On average, the cost for a charity care admission in FY2022 was $14,598.
A dedicated Steering Committee, led by Keith and Julia Sanford, is working with Siskin Hospital staff to help coordinate the event.
Platinum sponsorship is available for $3,000; Crystal sponsorship for $2,000; and Patron sponsorship for $1,500. Individual registration is $75 for in person and $50 for virtual. For more information or to register, please contact Margaret Fraizer at 423.634.1210 or mfrazier@siskinrehab.org. Online registration and donation opportunities are available by visiting www.SiskinRehab.org.