As I stood there with my heart pounding, ears buzzing, excitement, nervous tension, and the thrill of being on stage, I couldn’t believe it when they called my name for ……3rd Runner Up to Mrs. New Mexico America! I was so honored to be 3rd runner up on a stage with the most amazing, intelligent, hardworking, and beautiful married women in New Mexico. This may not be the story you were expecting to read first but it is how my four-year journey began to become Mrs. New Mexico America 2011.
I am Michelle Aurelius and so honored to be your Mrs. New Mexico 2011. Your “Mr. New Mexico” is my amazing husband, Dunham who deserves his own title, fireworks, celebration, and acknowledgement for his never ending support over the years in my quest for the title. There is no way I could have done it without him!
My husband and I met on Myspace after I clicked on the photos
of this handsome guy and his art and as they say, the rest is
history. We live in Santa Fe with our 16-month-old daughter
Lillian whose laughter, smiles, and curiosity light up our lives.
As a Sculptor, my husband balances out the super science geek
in me.
I am a Forensic Pathologist (yes – it is just as exciting as the
TV show CSI!) and try to give a voice to my patients and
communicate their stories to juries, law enforcement, the
community, families, and loved ones. I see the daily importance of informing the public of emerging and current health concerns. This has resulted with my involvement with monthly public service radio announcements on topics ranging from sudden infant death
surveillance in New Mexico so that we will never be caught unprepared again.
As a survivor with heart disease, I have been active with the American Heart association and volunteer as a member for the American Heart Walk and Go Red for Women, which campaigns to increase awareness of the number one killer of women: heart disease.
The most common warning sign of a heart attack in both men and women is chest pain or discomfort. But, women are more unique and they are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other symptoms particularly shortness of
breath, nausea, or pain in the back or jaw. Calling 911 if you have warning signs that may indicate a heart attack can save your life. To learn more about heart disease contact the American Heart Association at www.americanheart.org. The life you save may be your own.
As your Mrs. New Mexico 2011, my year will be focused on encouraging women to listen to their heart. I don’t mean just following their dreams but realizing that heart disease can affect anyone and their familiarity with the signs and symptoms could save their life or someone they love. I also hope to be an encouragement to those who are striving to achieve a dream. Hard work, determination, and support brought me to the title of Mrs. New Mexico and I hope that the same helps you achieve your own dreams. If you are considering competing in a pageant, I urge you not to hesitate! This is a great opportunity to form new friendships, network, and challenge you. The title has been awarded to first time competitors in a pageant and even those of us who took four attempts to get here. So, STOP WAITING and join us since Mrs. New Mexico 2012 could be YOU!
Michelle Aurelius
Mrs. New Mexico 2011
