06/24/2026
I am a first-generation Lebanese Druze American whose life has been shaped by resilience, service, and advocacy. Although born and raised in the United States, my family returned to Lebanon during my childhood, where I contracted polio. Recognizing the medical care I needed, my parents brought me back to the United States, a decision that profoundly influenced my future and fueled my commitment to disability advocacy.
On March 28, 2026, I was honored to be crowned Ms. Wheelchair California 2026. Today, I proudly represent California as I prepare to compete for Ms. Wheelchair America 2027 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, August 17–23, 2026. Through this platform, I am advancing my mission to empower young adults with disabilities to become effective self-advocates through education and understanding of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
For more than 20 years, I have dedicated my career to empowering individuals through education, career development, and disability services. As an educator, counselor, ADA specialist, and administrator, I have provided academic and career guidance to more than 1,500 students, developed inclusive programs, managed budgets and government-funded initiatives, secured grant funding, and trained organizations on ADA, 504, and 508 compliance. My professional work has focused on creating equitable opportunities and removing barriers for individuals with disabilities.
My commitment to service extends beyond my profession. As an active leader within the American Druze Society, I served on the Board of Directors and revitalized the ADS Youth Group to engage and inspire future generations. Combining my disability advocacy with my cultural heritage, I led fundraising efforts to provide a fully accessible wheelchair van and medical equipment to an NGO serving individuals with disabilities in the Druze mountain communities of Lebanon.
My journey—from surviving polio, to advocating for disability rights, to serving my community locally and internationally—has reinforced my belief that disability advocacy transcends borders, cultures, and generations. As Ms. Wheelchair California 2026 and a candidate for Ms. Wheelchair America 2027, I remain committed to creating greater equity, accessibility, and inclusion while empowering others to recognize their abilities, find their voice, and lead meaningful change.
All the best Dr. Sue ElHessen
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/ms-wheelchair-california-2026-dr-sue
