They said she couldn't, so she did! Diagnosed with juvenile arthritis at age 7, in a wheelchair by age 8, Jenna would turn a life marked by physical limitations into a platform for creative expression, disability pride, and change-making advocacy. This is a story about finding your voice, redefining your power, and choosing joy in a world that expects your silence!

From Diagnosis to Defiance

At just 7 years old, Jenna was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis. By 8, she was using a wheelchair. And by 15, she was battling depression, bullying, and the weight of a world that rarely saw her as capable.

But Jenna's story is not about pity — it's about power. Through nearly two decades of teaching music, performing first-chair trumpet with a fused elbow, and embracing her identity as a disabled woman, Jenna has rewritten the rules — and her role in the world.

Now, she’s using her voice to advocate for accessibility, inclusion, and representation — turning rejection into recognition and silence into sound.

Why This Episode Will Move You

In this episode, you'll hear:

• How Jenna turned disability into identity — and pride
• Why music became her lifeline
• The role teachers and mentors played in shaping her future
• What it truly means to choose joy in a world that expected her silence

Whether you're an educator, advocate, parent, or simply someone navigating your own struggle, Jenna’s journey will inspire you to reclaim your voice and rewrite your own narrative.

Listen to the Song That Tells Her Story

Don't miss the original song "Joyful Rebellion" — inspired by Jenna's journey and created to capture her voice, her power, and her purpose.

Hear how her story was transformed into song thanks to K-Lowe Music - Your Custom Music Destination!

Mentioned Links & Resources

Visit Jenna's Website

Connect with Jenna on LinkedIn, Facebook, & Instagram

Hey, it's Kevin!

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© 2025 Grit, Grace, & Inspiration

This podcast is designed specifically for those seeking healing from trauma, relief from anxiety, overcoming fear of the unknown, resolving isolation, rebuilding self-worth, confronting guilt and shame, personal growth after trauma, finding their life's purpose, recovering from emotional distress, conquering limiting beliefs, navigating identity shifts, building resilience, rebuilding relationships, coping with chronic pain, searching for spiritual direction, embracing inner strength, cultivating hope, overcoming self-doubt, reclaiming their future, and experiencing post-traumatic growth.