DeLena Perry, a Clark County resident whose life was fundamentally reshaped by a spinal cord injury in 2018, has been crowned Miss Wheelchair Washington 2026. Her selection was first reported in The Reflector, which highlighted the personal determination and community advocacy that led to her recognition.

Miss Wheelchair Washington is not a traditional pageant. It is an advocacy-centered program that selects representatives based on their work to advance accessibility, disability rights, and public awareness. Titleholders frequently engage with civic groups, speak at schools, and meet with public officials to address persistent barriers faced by Washingtonians with mobility disabilities.

Perry’s new role carries statewide responsibilities, but it also has implications close to home. Southwest Washington’s residents with disabilities continue to navigate uneven access to transportation, healthcare, accessible housing, and publicly funded services. While Clark County is her home base, Cowlitz County faces many of the same structural challenges — including limited paratransit availability, inconsistent sidewalk connectivity, and a shortage of accessible rental units.

Advocates say that visibility matters. When local representatives assume statewide roles, they often bring regional priorities with them. For residents in Longview, Kelso, and the broader Cowlitz County area, Perry’s appointment may help elevate regional disparities and community‑identified needs during statewide discussions on disability policy.

As Miss Wheelchair Washington 2026, Perry is expected to participate in public events throughout the year and may compete for the national title. Her platform focuses on resilience, empowerment, and the pursuit of improved accessibility — issues that resonate widely across southwest Washington communities.

Sources:
• The Reflector: Miss Wheelchair Washington