What is something I wish I knew at the beginning of my journey that I know now and would like to share with others as they navigate a new injury/diagnosis?
During the Summer of 2004, my life was flipped upside down when a wave slammed me headfirst against the ocean floor. That day I shattered my neck and became a C4-5 Quadriplegic paralyzed below my shoulders and a power wheelchair user. If I could go back in time, I would tell my 18-year-old self as I lay in the critical unit that life can move forward in beautiful ways if you embrace the superpower of community and choice.
“Having loving or helpful hands along the way, including choice in your care and choice in what you do next, gives anyone the ability to live a productive and meaningful life. Before my injury, I did things 1 million ways and now after my injury, I get to do it 1 million new and different ways.“
Community and choice gifted me the ability to start a thriving nonprofit foundation, graduate with honors from undergrad and law school, pass the legal bar, become a successful attorney, run a consulting firm, change laws, invent a sport, travel the world, fall in love, and become a dad. I could not have this alone and I’m glad that I did not have to. Build your community and build your future. You get to choose what direction you go in and what you do next. Never stop Wheeling or Dreaming Big!
Josh is a father, trial attorney, community relations manager at AccessiBe and member of United Spinal Association Board of Directors.
