By Mary Quigley Miller

I have been living with tinnitus since my diagnosis on November 29, 1995. It has been quite a ride, but I have chosen to embrace my condition and make the most out of life. I had been a coordinator for a tinnitus and hyperacusis support group in California. Today, I want to share how I am taking charge and pursuing my dreams, despite the challenges tinnitus brings.

This year, I had a realization. I realized that there are so many wonderful things awaiting me beyond the confines of my tinnitus. I made a conscious decision to refocus my energy on living a fulfilling life. After all, there is so much more to explore and experience. It was time for me to get a life, and that is exactly what I am doing.

To start this new chapter, I set some personal goals. One of them is to become a certified personal trainer by the end of this year. I believe that through this certification, I can make a positive impact on the lives of others, helping them reach their fitness goals and live healthier lives. It is a passion of mine, and I am committed to achieving it.

However, my number one goal this year is something entirely different. In January, I took a leap of faith and entered a beauty pageant. It was a decision that required me to pray for a good year before making the commitment. So here I am, at the age of 72, competing for the crown in the Ms. Senior Michigan Beauty Pageant, which will take place on July 19. It's an exciting opportunity for me, and I'm grateful for the chance to inspire women of all ages to embrace life to the fullest. If you're curious, you can watch a video about the pageant on WZZM 13 On Your Side News.

I want to take a moment to address everyone out there who is also living with tinnitus. It's crucial to understand that you can still lead an incredible life while waiting for a cure. I made a conscious choice to live life fully, despite my tinnitus. It hasn't always been easy, but it's definitely worth it. So, my message is simple: Keep your eyes up, engage with the world around you, and enjoy every moment of this beautiful life.

Moving Literally and Figuratively

A little background about me: I moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan, five years ago from Southern California, where I had lived for over 40 years. It was a significant change for me, prompted by the passing of my mother. My family suggested that I move back home, as I was born in Lansing. Although it was a big adjustment, I am doing my best to make the most of it.

In California, I had the opportunity to pursue my passion for modeling. I started in the 1970s and continued throughout the ’80s and ’90s. I even had the chance to be a contestant on “The Dating Game” in the mid-’70s, which was quite an adventure! Over the years, I modeled for various brands, including Macy's when they were known as Bullocks in the ’80s. I also dabbled in commercial work and had the privilege of being an extra in movies and TV shows, such as “The X-Files,” “Beverly Hills 90210,” and even had the opportunity to be part of Bruce Willis's movie “The Kid.” Modeling again for Macy's in 2019 was a pleasant surprise when my supervisor asked me to showcase a clothing line due to my previous experience.

In addition to modeling, I was also part of a local band. We primarily played contemporary music, singing popular songs like Carol King's “It’s Too Late.” We were a trio, and I was the lead singer. Those were some incredible times, and the joy of performing with my bandmates is something I will always cherish.

Speaking of family, my younger sister is the one who suggested that I enter the Ms. Senior Beauty Pageant in Michigan. We both reside in Michigan. I'm grateful for her support and encouragement throughout this journey.

I want to reiterate that no matter what challenges we face, life always has something extraordinary in store for us. It]s up to us to seize those opportunities, chase our dreams, and make every moment count. To all of you out there, with or without tinnitus, I send my love, prayers, and encouragement. May you find the strength to embrace life’s adventures and create your own beautiful story.

Mary Miller lives in Michigan.

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