Sasi’s very own Courtney Helmich has defied the odds at every turn. She wasn’t expected to live to adulthood, graduate high school, or earn a college degree. But Courtney doesn’t let expectations define her. Instead, she follows her determination wherever it leads—writing more than 20 books and sharing her remarkable journey.
Born in 1993 with cerebral palsy and quadriplegia, Courtney faced immense challenges from the start, with slim chances of survival. Yet by 2013, she had earned her Regents diploma from Pioneer High School. That same summer, she enrolled at Genesee Community College to pursue an associate’s degree in applied science, inspired by her dream of becoming a special education teacher.
In 2018, Courtney proudly graduated. Determined to find a meaningful job, she sought assistance from ACCES-VR, a state-funded program that helps people with disabilities achieve their goals.
However, living in a seven-person IRA posed significant challenges. The demands of her environment, combined with her physical limitations, made her dream of employment seem increasingly out of reach. Courtney reflected, “I knew I wanted to make a difference. I wanted my story to be told, but it felt like there was nothing for me.”
A heartfelt conversation with a close friend changed everything. “You should become an author and write about your story,” her friend suggested.
Those simple words ignited a spark in Courtney. Writing under the pen name “Annie Lynne”—a tribute to a beloved horse from her childhood—she authored her first book, “This Is Me, Courtney Lynn,” a memoir chronicling her life journey.
Her first book was published less than two years ago, and since then, she has written more than 20 books covering a wide range of topics. From heartfelt tributes to beloved caretakers and reflections on adaptive and assistive technology to navigating the process of acquiring a new wheelchair, Courtney’s work shines a light on her life and experiences. She also writes about family, fond memories, and even her favorite TV shows from the ‘90s and 2000s.
In her book “A Temporary Home,” she emphasizes the importance of following your dreams despite life’s brevity. “We are only on this earth for a short amount of time, so we have to make the most of it,” says Courtney.
Courtney even writes about writing. In her book “Gazing at the Stars,” she shares, “My disability, Cerebral Palsy, defines precise and unique diction.”
“I don’t see myself solely as a person with a disability,” Courtney states firmly. Through her writing, Courtney continues to inspire others, proving that determination and passion can transform obstacles into opportunities.
To purchase an Annie Lynne book, click here.