MAZOMANIE, Wis. — A new Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin is moving into her new term in the new year.
And she has hopes of helping others.
Annie Heathcote said as she takes on this role, she wants to make an impact on her community and the state of Wisconsin.
Not only does Heathcote have a passion for helping others, she also wants to serve as an advocate for those living with disabilities in Wisconsin.
But helping in her hometown of Mazomanie will always mean something to her.
In her first few months in the position, she has been able to make appearances, do interviews, and speak with students about how to treat those living with disabilities.
In her hometown, she’s been able to help a handful of businesses become more accessible, including the town hall.
“I really like that you put the sign up and that you put the door bell there,” Heathcote said while assessing the new doorbell installed at the town hall.
Heathcote has had a few months in her new role and said she is ready to kick off the near year in this position.
“It is honestly such an honor to be crowned with this title. It means so much to me that it is giving me a voice to speak for the disabled community and advocate for accessibility and inclusion on a larger scale,” Heathcote said.
Her hope is to shine a light on the needs of those living with disabilities with a focus on the need for caregivers as a part of her campaign.
“There is a huge caregiver shortage right now. It’s a big crisis that a lot of people don’t know about, so I think it’s important to educate the general public,” Heathcote said.
For Mazomanie town clerk Courtney Beuthin, having an advocate in her community is exciting.
“We are very excited not just for her but it’s going to help us all, it’s going to help the community become stronger all together,” Beuthin said.
Heathcote said she feels positive about what this year will bring and what she will be able to accomplish with this title.
“I think it all helps make a positive difference,” Heathcote said.