The adversity Mercy overcame not her numerous accomplishements adequately convey who or what she was. Mercy was strong and courageous enough to accept her new life as a Quadraplegic in 1984, but never let it define or limit her. Mercy competed in the Ms. Wheelchair Florida pageant and not only won, but went on to be crowned Miss Whellchair America. As a guest in The White House, she used her notoriety to change the world's perception... see moreThe adversity Mercy overcame not her numerous accomplishements adequately convey who or what she was. Mercy was strong and courageous enough to accept her new life as a Quadraplegic in 1984, but never let it define or limit her. Mercy competed in the Ms. Wheelchair Florida pageant and not only won, but went on to be crowned Miss Whellchair America. As a guest in The White House, she used her notoriety to change the world's perception of the word disABILITIES and made us all focus on the ABILITIES of those with physical challenges. Upon graduating from Our Lady of Lourdes Academy in 1981, she went on to graduate from FIU in 1993 and became a Dade County School Trust Counselor. At Terra Environmental High School, she played a pivotal role in forming tomorrow's leaders and advocates of our community.
Mercy was strong, courageous, and kind. She was a beacon of positivity who will be sorely missed by all who knew her. In fewer words, she was everything we all wish we could be.
She is survived first and foremost by her son Christian, in whom mercy's love and compassion lives on! Her husband of 26 years, Doug Fowler, who was always there for her. her loving parents Ricardo and Ana Rodriguez, as well as her caring siblings; Ana Rodriguez Aja, Rafael, Richard, and Robert Rodriguez.