Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyra Randle.
Hi Tyra, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My name is Tyra Randle and I’m a paraplegic and domestic violence survivor. January 15th of 2020 I was shot 8 times in my home by my son’s father. Since than I have devoted my life to be an advocate for domestic violence survivors as well as the disabled community. I was Ms. Wheelchair Missouri 2024 and placed 3rd runner up for Ms. Wheelchair America 2025. I’ve also worked with the Christopher Reeves Foundation on numerous occasions as well as an independent blogger for them. I’m a peer mentor for the United Spinal Cord Association. I’m also on the advisory committee for the United Spinal Cord Association. I’m also currently on the employee and patient advisory committee for North Kansas City Hospital. In February of 2023 I was selected to represent my state on Capital Hill to advocate on upcoming bills that were presented on the houses floor pertaining to disability laws and rights. I have created my own foundation for domestic violence victims and for people of the disabled community called Diamond in the Rough KC. I’ve been featured on n Good Morning America and I’ve been an athlete with the Disabled but not Really organization by Wesley Hamilton. I’m currently a board member of Mizzou’s football league Tony Temple foundation called Temple Made Foundation where I bring the perspective and views of the disabled community. Since my injury I’ve been apart of 11+ conferences and or webinars. With one you tube guess appearance with over 5.2 K views. Recently I was featured in a T-Mobile and Visit KC commercial and I’m currently a model for adaptive jeans for JC Penny which can be found in stores and online. My disability does not define me but I define my disability.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It defiantly has not been a smooth road. Becoming paralyzed while my son was 6 weeks old and my daughter was 11 made me realize how strong my love is for them. To move forward with life on my own with no government assistance, because to them I wasn’t disabled, really pushed my body to the limit. To make sure my kids had a roof over their heads and food on the table and still be present mentally and physically has been a task that I’ve had to learn how to do with grace. On top of all of that I had to deal with my ex who shot me still stalking and harassing me from behind bars. To put the icing on the cake I now live in a world that wasn’t made for me as a disabled person. Life is more expensive and the ADA laws are at least the bare minimum and not the realistic level that is needed to survive independently as a member of society. Trying to overcome these obstacles and not blame the world has been a task that has been hard but rewarding. To make a change and be apart of bettering other’s lives has been fulfilling.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a float unit secretary at NKC Health. I’ve worked at the hospital for 8 years. Before I was a NUS I was a CNA for 8 years. My medical background has helped me a lot in my journey as a disabled person. At work I’m known for always being happy smiling. I’m most proud of all the changes I’ve made to the hospital to make it the realistic level of accessibility. What sets me apart from others is my willingness to go above and beyond what is asked of me. I don’t want people to see my disability but to see me so I tend to have my work reflect that. I also want when people see me that they can see God’s grace and mercy and I can give our patients hope as well.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I’ve been blessed to be apart of a T-Mobile, Cox Health, Visit KC and JCPenney Ads and commercials
Pricing:
- Keynote Speaker $1,000+
- DEI Training for Businesses $2,000+
