I am happy to participate in the Wings for Life Run because since 2011 two people very close to me have benefitted from ongoing spinal cord research, and I hope to see more improvements in the quality of their lives.
In September of 2011 one of my brothers was diagnosed with a severe spinal cord compression from a deteriorating and slipping disc. He had been suffering from pain, tingling numbness, and partial paralysis for months before finally being correctly diagnosed. He has had several surgeries since, and another one will be needed. He continues to thrive despite living with some level of pain all the time.
In November of 2011 a close friend of mine was in a bike accident which fractured two vertebrae in his neck and gravely injured his spine. In another era, his life would have been over, but although he is wheel-chair bound, he has been able to continue to lead a vigorous life and to raise his children.
These are two of the bravest, strongest people I know, and I want to see them get better.
