Stacey Copas, who became a quadriplegic at the age of 12, has transformed her life through the practice of gratitude. After a diving accident in 1989 left her with a broken neck and confined to a wheelchair, Copas has dedicated her life to empowering others through her experiences and insights.
Each morning, as her alarm sounds, Copas recites her gratitude mantra, a practice she maintains throughout the day. She emphasizes that this ritual, lasting about 20 seconds, helps her shift focus away from negativity and manage life’s challenges more effectively. “When you’re stuck in a rut or feeling overwhelmed, simple gratitude strategies can flip things very quickly,” she explains.
Her journey toward embracing gratitude began shortly after her accident. Initially, Copas struggled with the emotional aftermath of her injury, describing her early years as a “deep, dark place” from which she felt determined to isolate herself. However, the turning point came when she learned to reframe her perspective.
Finding Strength in Adversity
Copas acknowledges that many people question her ability to be grateful for her situation. “People say, ‘how can you be grateful about ending up a quadriplegic?’” she reflects. Yet, she insists that the experience has opened doors for her that she never would have encountered otherwise. “I’m really grateful this happened and the opportunities it’s created for me,” she states.
Now, as the founder of The Academy of Resilience, Copas teaches others about the transformative power of gratitude. Her work emphasizes that recognizing and appreciating even the smallest aspects of life can lead to profound changes in outlook and emotional well-being. By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others facing their own challenges.
The practice of expressing gratitude has not only helped Copas reclaim her life but has also become a cornerstone of her advocacy work. She encourages individuals to explore gratitude as a tool for personal growth, especially during difficult times.
“Once I was able to reframe my situation with gratitude, it was like a weight had lifted,” she recalls. This revelation not only changed her life but also shaped her mission to assist others in navigating their own adversities.
Through workshops and motivational speaking, Copas continues to spread her message. Her journey serves as a reminder that even in the face of significant challenges, a shift in perspective can lead to unexpected opportunities and profound personal growth.
