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Mary Grace Aclan

UNIQUE YET EMBRACED.

For 19 years, I’ve been using a cosmetic foam cover on my prosthetic leg as my way of blending in and providing a sense of normalcy.

It’s been a year since I made the decision to remove the foam and show off my bionic leg. There are both pros and cons but on the brighter side, embracing the bionic look has given me the sense of pride of who I am. It’s like saying, “Hey world, this is me, take it or leave it.” Sure, there’s more staring and attention now, but I’m cool with that. I see it as a chance to spread awareness and maybe even inspire someone along the way. When people ask about my bionic leg, I feel like it’s a chance to educate, inspire and show them what’s possible.

It’s not just about me; it’s about breaking down barriers and making society more inclusive. Showing off my bionic leg might turn some heads, but it’s all good because through openness and resilience, it challenges societal perceptions of disability and encourages inclusivity, contributing to a more compassionate and accepting society.