Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Johnson.
Hi Ashley, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
After my 2016 diagnosis with Transverse Myelitis left me a complete quadriplegic, I had two choices: give up or become better than I’d ever been. I realized I still had all this knowledge – I just needed to find a new way to use it.
I knew with my new limitations I could not go back as a stylist behind the chair so I fell back on teaching. I knew I had the knowledge to give even though some of the actual tasks would be hard or unachievable. After a year back in a Cosmetology School I decided to go bigger! I applied for the South Carolina Board of Cosmetology to be a board member. Why, because I thought I needed to be a part of the industry I have worked my whole life in. Since being appointed to the Board of Cosmetology I have been promoted to Vice Chair and have helped revise the scope of practice for Esthetics and Cosmetology in the state. I am thriving not just surviving. I am helping others achieve their goals in the Cosmetology industry. Showing that we only limit ourselves.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I am still recovering from my onset attack with Transverse Myelitis. Everyday is a struggle, however I look at my struggle as a blessing. My pain humbles me, a constant reminder that I have a purpose. My limitations, I fall a lot. I always have bruises . I was super excited to finally receive my service dog that can track my neurological impulses and help me with balance and depth perception.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have been a licensed Cosmetologist in the state of South Carolina since 2000. I have been a Licensed Cosmetology Instructor since 2005. I was diagnosed with a rare neurological condition I learned to adapt myself around my disabilities and continue my career. I was appointed to the South Carolina board of Cosmetology as a member then as the vice chair.
I am a children’s book author “How Lynn Became a Mermaid”
Working on my new series “The Adventures of Farrah the Great”
In my spare time I teach swim lessons to children under 12years old.
I am an Elis Certified Life Guard.
And I am the “Lynn the Mermaid” where I do birthday parties and events.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
That I am actually an introvert. I use all my energy at work or during engagements. I love to just snuggle on the sofa with my service dog.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @ashley_instructssc @farrah.the.great
- Facebook: @Ashley Tucker Johnson
