Today we’d like to introduce you to Krystina Pacheco.
Hi Krystina, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My name is Krystina Pacheco, I’m 31 years old, and a momma of two beautiful children. I was born and raised in Del Rio, Texas, got my bachelors degree in psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and my masters in school psychology at the university of Texas at San Antonio. I’m also currently working on obtaining my doctorate in special education at Texas Tech University. Two years ago, I had an unfortunate sequence of events happen to where I had to ultimately have four of my limbs amputated so now I live my life as a quadruple amputee. However, I continue to live life to the fullest and do not let my disability get in the way of my goals, or in the way of being the best wife, daughter, and mother that I can be.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to recovery has not been linear for myself or family because there have been several ups and downs along the way in regards to needing further surgeries, difficulties with prosthetics, and being in and out of therapy. However, I have been successful in always willing to try my best when faced with adversities. I was able to complete inpatient rehabilitation in two weeks at TIRR memorial Hermann in Houston Texas. After that, I completed my physical and occupational therapy at CFI at BAMC military base both of my physical therapist would describe me as motivated, determined, and triumphant in whatever activity they threw at me. I am now able to cook, clean, look after my two toddlers, complete the role as a mother and a wife independently, as well as returning back to school to obtain my doctorate in special education.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a school psychologist, I am very familiar with serving my community. I’m very active in the school districts, serving students with disabilities and participating in events such as special Olympics with special education students. I like to also spread awareness of limb loss and limb difference around our community through my social media. I anm also an active member of our Catholic Church, where I volunteer for fundraisers and events that raise money for the Catholic school and church. My eldest child, also participates in team sports in the community such as soccer and T-Ball. We also like to go and support my husband who is a local coach at Pleasanton ISD and attend the varsity football and varsity soccer games with my family.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I have changed my journey into a positive life-changing experience by bringing awareness to others about limb loss and limb different awareness. In regards to risktaking, I have learned how to live life with a disability, and do it with a positive light. I share my experiences and life on TikTok, where you can see me doing my make up, hair, or just talking about my life as amputee, a mother, and a wife. If you meet me, I try to always smile , has a positive attitude, and be kind to others. My family sees me as the same Krystina pre-amputations. I do not accept the term “inspiration” but rather I explain to others that no matter what hardships one faces, it is important to find the thing that drives you and your motivation. To me, that motivator was my two babies that I was eager to get home to, and that I continue to raise the same despite having a disability.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/krystinaepacheco
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayelizabethpacheco
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AM39PE6YR/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@krystinapacheco
