Monica had it all by the age of 37 — a successful career in the financial field, a wonderful son, and big dreams for the future. She never dreamt that a disability would change her life forever. But in January 2003, "Pandora's box was opened and I literally became a human Humpty Dumpty," Monica said. That night, Monica stepped off a porch and slipped on the wet ground. She went down, trying to brace her forward fall by stretching out her arms for support. Her right elbow, shattered in a dozen places, needed to be surgically repaired.

After initial recovery, Monica developed osteonecrosis, a condition known as "dying of the bone." Monica's humerus bone started to crumble then her hip bone died. Monica became paralyzed and confined to a wheelchair. She underwent hip replacement surgery and was diagnosed with degenerative disc disease (a gradual process that might compromise the spine), hyperparathyroidism (the controller of her calcium) and osteopenia (reduced bone mass). All of this forced Monica to hire a caretaker to help her do basic daily tasks, such as bathing, eating, and dressing.

The financial fallout was devastating. Monica was awarded Social Security Disability Benefits, but it took 2-1/2 years to get the payments, not uncommon when trying to be approved for SSDI Benefits. She used up her retirement savings to pay expenses. Then, she borrowed against her credit cards, her car was repossessed and she couldn't afford to pay the rent. She wasn't able to work as a financial planner or hold onto her licenses and certifications.

Despite Monica's daily pain, her spirit is high and keeps her going. "That's the one thing I still have, my intelligence and drive to regain my life and health, along with the support of my family, friends and health care providers," said Monica.

"To date, I've had 11 surgeries and will have many more throughout the rest of my life, and many more years to recover. I've made every mistake possible because I thought I would make a quick recovery. Who would have expected to be permanently disabled from a broken arm?"

"Stories like mine must be shared because within the blink of an eye, your life could change forever."

To her, the most valuable lesson is to protect yourself by planning now.  Like most people, Monica didn't think it could happen to her."

Plan ahead to help protect yourself in the event of an accident or injury.

To protect the privacy of those impacted by a disability, only first names are used and the photo is not of the actual individual profiled.