posted Jun 07, 2013
Mt. Holly, NC
Injury Level: C4
Injury Date: 7/20/2007
On the afternoon of July 20, 2007, I was injured in a single car accident. Having sustained an explosive fracture of the C4 vertebrae and severe damage to the spinal cord, I was left with a complete spinal cord injury at the age of 18. After having surgery at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte and spending a week in their Trauma Unit, I was airlifted to the Shepherd Center in Atlanta where I was a patient for three months.
Physical therapy was started even before I was weaned off the ventilator at six weeks post injury. Upon returning home, I began a desperate search for rehabilitation. Unable to find anything locally, I went to Project Walk in California twice. Their program offered me hope.
Working out is a major focus in my life. Having danced six days a week prior to my accident, I knew about hard work. Mentally, I was ready for the challenge.
When I heard about the opening of Race to Walk, I immediately called and became one of the first three clients. Although my progress has been slow, the most important thing for me is that there has been some progress.
Without a doubt my long term goal is to dance and to walk again. I graduated UNC Charlotte in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice. Iam now attending Wake Forrest and will graduate this May with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Being paralyzed from the neck down does not stop me from enjoying life. I love hanging out with my friends and family. Teaching dance, eating at my favorite restaurants, going to concerts and riding the jet ski are among my pleasures. Although I long for the day when I can walk again, I am happy with what I have.
