Yeah Victoria’s Secret models and personal trainers are hot in general – but how many have managed to survive a car wreck PLUS a freak ski boat explosion that left their entire body burned, then managed to turn their lives around into becoming personal trainers after years of in and out-patient therapy? You’re probably thinking “zero, that’s way too much for anyone to handle,” but you’d be wrong. Kellie Mencel managed to survive all of that and completely turn her life around.
Back in 2009 Kellie was a regular 17-year-old who, like many teenagers who are new to driving, was involved in a car accident that left her unconscious and trapped inside her upside-down car. After being rushed to the hospital and spending a week in bed, Kellie’s family took her on a vacation to their lake cabin to unwind from the stress of the accident.
…except while Kellie was water skiing the family’s ski boat exploded into flames. According to Kellie via BuzzFeed News,
I remember the flames coming towards my eyes and all I could do was close them. I tried to jump out of the boat into the water but I slipped. I looked back to see my dad and my legs were on fire. As I jumped into the water I went into shock. My dad was still stuck on the boat. I was just screaming and screaming.
A nearby boat came and rescued us but as soon as I got out of the water the pain became so bad I thought I was dying.
Kellie spent years going through in and out-patient treatment and even had to learn how to walk again. According to Kellie,
I wasn’t allowed to have my burnt skin in the sun for 2 years. So I would be covered head to toe in clothing and with an umbrella. I definitely got a lot of stares, especially with pink skin, missing hair and no eyebrows. I had to moisturise my skin 5 times a day for 2 years after.(via)
However, Kellie eventually made it through her recovery process, a feat that she mainly credits to her parents and exercise.
The now 22-year-old is currently studying fitness and nutrition as well as working as a personal trainer. And while I’m sure you can sit there and say “Well I know 5 personal trainers who are WAY hotter than Kellie,” how many of them overcame years of physical/emotional therapy and PTSD to get to where they are now? Probably none. Kellie is one in a million and damn does it show.
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[H/T Buzzfeed]