CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW)-  Emily Mills was paralyzed when the car she was traveling in was hit head-on by a drunk driver in February 2011.

Emily was just 5-years-old when she was confined to a wheel-chair.

The now 14-year-old Northeast High School freshman is using her experience to bring awareness to the dangers of drunk and impaired driving.

Emily was awarded the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Tennessee Power of Community Award for her strength through adversity. The award is given to a person who has made an impact in their community and brought awareness to the dangers of drunk driving.

With support from the Montgomery County Courthouse, the District Attorney’s Office, law enforcement, the Montgomery-County School System, family and friends, Emily and her mother Stephanie Watson have continued community outreach efforts by talking to youth in the community and sharing MADD’s mission to end drunk driving, support the victims and prevent underage drinking.

“She is admired by so many … at only 14 she’s continued to show great strength,” the announcer said at the award ceremony. “Through all the challenges she faced, she’s turned tragedy to triumph.”

Emily was unable to attend the award ceremony due to illness but watched the ceremony through Facebook Live with her family.

Sgt. Jimmy Brown, from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, accepted Emily’s Award and the crowd sent greetings to Emily.

Sgt. Brown was on the scene the night of Emily’s tragic wreck.  He was also involved in a car wreck involving an impaired driver and has been supportive of Emily and her family.

“It’s an honor and we’re so thankful for MADD recognizing Emily for this award,” said Stephanie Watson, her mom. “Emily has been through so much in her short, little life. Through all the hardships she has faced, you will still find her laughing and loving life. She truly is an inspiration. As her mom, it was heartwarming to see Emily be publicly recognized for just being her.”

For more on Emily’s story visit the Prayers for Emily Jean Facebook page.