Miss McNeese LaBelle Pageant Returns After 25 Years
LAKE CHARLES, La. – A cherished tradition has made a comeback with the first Miss McNeese LaBelle pageant in over two decades.
Avery Carnahan Crowned as the New Miss McNeese LaBelle
Avery Carnahan, a freshman from Longville, has been crowned as the first Miss McNeese LaBelle since 1997. This enthusiastic young woman faced serious challenges along her journey but has emerged victorious.
Her Ambition for the Pageant’s Future
Upon winning, Carnahan expressed her excitement: “It makes me feel amazing. I’m so glad that I was able to bring it back. I want to see this pageant succeed; I want it to keep growing,” she stated, highlighting her commitment to the event’s future.
Competing in Miss Louisiana
As the youngest contestant in the upcoming Miss Louisiana competition, scheduled for June 19-21 in Monroe, Carnahan will compete against 39 other candidates, showcasing her passion and determination on a larger stage.
The Journey to Recovery
Avery’s journey to this moment began at the tender age of 13 when she suffered a catastrophic knee injury while cheerleading. She faced numerous medical challenges, including broken bones and torn ligaments, leading to a long and painful recovery process.
Support Through Adversity
During her ordeal, Carnahan battled depression, a struggle compounded by isolation from her coaches and peers. Her mother, Sonya Cook, recounted the emotional toll: “It was absolutely devastating; it had rocked me to my core.” The journey was not easy, but family support helped her regain mobility and strength.
A Passion for Helping Others
Inspired by her experiences, Carnahan set her sights on a career in medicine as an Orthopedic Physician Assistant. “I want to stand in the gap for athletes like me,” she explained, determined to prevent others from experiencing similar pain.
Community Outreach Initiative
To further her mission, Avery established “Pain Beyond The Game,” a community service organization dedicated to helping athletes recover from injuries. Through this initiative, she hopes to raise awareness and provide support to those facing difficulties in their athletic journeys.
