Stacey Kozel was diagnosed with lupus at the age of 19. During her worst "flare-up" in March 2014, the now 41-year-old Ohio resident lost her lower body mobility. She had to go through therapies to work on her core strength and balance after the paralysis.
Courtesy Stacey Kozel
Stacey was delighted to find out about these new braces which essentially work as the muscles and bones of her legs. But they come with steep prices. It took her and her therapists a year to get them covered by her insurance company. She said she was "in shock" when her claim was approved.
Courtesy Stacey Kozel
Stacey decided to hike the Appalachian Trail to show people how useful the braces are to insurance companies. She hopes her effort can make it easier for others to get the braces covered.
Courtesy Stacey Kozel
The 2,190-mile long Appalachian Trail is daunting even to those who have no trouble walking, and few who set out manage to travel the entire trail. That hasn't stopped Stacey Kozel.
Courtesy Stacey Kozel
The adventure has gotten her back outside and into the fresh air she always loved and among new friends.
Courtesy Stacey Kozel
Stacey started her hike this March and has already passed the halfway point of the Appalachian Trail. Her determination has earned her a nickname among the hikers on the trail: Ironwill.
