South Middlesex Times

After facing a life-altering accident that resulted in the loss of her left hand, Lydia Gray, a Rutgers staffer, has turned her personal tragedy into a mission to help others in similar situations. Following the accident, Gray found herself in a dark place, questioning how she would navigate life with one hand. However, she soon found solace in channeling her pain towards assisting those in need.

Gray's journey led her to establish the Lydia Amputees Foundation and organize the Lydia 5K Walk for Amputees and Individuals With Disabilities. Reflecting on her motivation, Gray expressed, "I want to make a difference in the life of anybody I come across in need. So many of them are suffering right now. I just want to make sure they are cared for."

Since its inception, the foundation has provided support to numerous amputees locally, nationally, and even in Sierra Leone. Gray's hands-on approach includes not only financial assistance but also personal visits to uplift spirits and provide essential items. Her dedication to making a difference has resonated with those around her, including her colleague John Makropoulos, who described Gray as "an amazing, resilient woman" and praised her positive outlook and unwavering strength.

Gray's commitment to helping others has not only impacted those she assists but has also brought newfound purpose and confidence to her own life. Despite the challenges she has faced, Gray remains resolute in her mission, stating, "It opened my world. I can now walk around without my prosthetic, and I don’t care whether someone is staring at me."

As Gray prepares for the fourth annual Lydia 5K Walk for Amputees and Individuals With Disabilities on April 20 at Alvin Williams Memorial Park in Woodbridge, her story serves as a testament to resilience, compassion, and the transformative power of helping those in need.