Stories Lived

A Light in the Dark: Mikayla’s Story

What if in the blink of an eye, everything about your life changed? Mikayla shares her story of how her world was turned upside down one night when she was 16 years old. Her car was t-boned at full speed on her driver’s side, leaving her in a coma.

Waking up in a hospital bed, her doctors told her it was a miracle she was alive; but that she might never walk again. This was devastating news for a girl who was highly active in sports and cheer. Mikayla did not accept this new reality and she pushed through her pain. After months of rehabilitation, she was able to get out of her wheelchair and walk freely without her walker. But even after this triumph, she was left with chronic pain.

She couldn’t understand why she was was going through this, but attempted living a normal life. Mikayla began to make new friends and with this, she found new purpose. Her friends were full of hope and faith, and it caused Mikayla to wonder if she could be filled with the hope that they had.

Her faith grew stronger, leading her to be more thankful and appreciative of the time she was given. Inspired, she decided to go on a pilgrimage to Italy where her faith was tested each day. Walking for long periods of time was extremely painful but she pushed on, determined. But soon, a light would illuminate her dark days.

While celebrating Mass in a chapel, she took communion and was miraculously healed of her chronic pain. Mikayla was unsure if this was temporary, but she was overjoyed at this glimmer of hope. The next day, her group was to hike up a mountain in Assisi, Italy. Mikayla was able to run up the mountain, feeling free of her pain.

Since her healing, Mikayla has been able to go on the Camino, a 500 mile trek across multiple countries. She is excited to share her story in the hopes that it will inspire others.

 

About the Filmmaker
Submitted by  Sasha Knock

As a child, a mini spiral journal was constantly at Sasha’s side. She was always ready to create new stories from her wild and vivid imagination. As she grew older, Sasha realized that film was the perfect outlet for her to turn her visions into realities.

After four years of hard work, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Film and Media Studies from Arizona State University in 2015. Since then, she has had the opportunity to edit the trailer and television spot for China’s official selection for the Academy Awards, as well as work with many different companies and organizations for video and media marketing.

Filmmaker’s Website:  http://sashaknock.weebly.com