RENO, NV - Anita Wright wanted to show others a disability shouldn't stop them from living life. She spread her message as a type of goodwill ambassador for Shriner's in the 1970s.

"They can see what I can do and what people can do when given the right options," Wright said.

When Wright was born, she wasn't expected to live. But with the help of Shriner's Hospital, she did just that. Her leg was amputated and she's had eight surgeries.

Through her spokesperson role, she meet with politicians including Harry Reid and former Governor Michael Callaghan.

But now she says things are very different. She's lost her parents, husband and home. She was also laid off, and has run out of benefits.

"My hips are very sore all the time and it's very difficult to get around," she said.

Wright uses a cain or a scooter.

Her disability claim was denied, with the government saying it believes Wright's condition does not prevent her from working.

"I've been disabled all my life and it's about time the government knows there's some people out here who really deserve to get disability that have worked for it."

Wright said she is living on welfare she is worried will stop coming, and the charity of her friends.