Dean shared that he was diagnosed with Spinal Synopsis early in his life. Up until his accident, he had to get shots in his neck to avoid surgery. On the day of his accident, he went out for a walk and when he turned a corner, there were dogs running toward him. Dean ended up tripping off the curb and hit his head on the street, ultimately causing him to be Quadriplegic. After his surgery, Dean and his doctors discovered he was still able to wiggle his toes, classifying him as Quadriplegic Incomplete.

Even with him being able to move his toes, Dean’s doctors were unsure how much mobility he would gain back and recommended physical therapy. Twelve years of therapy later, Dean is able to stand and use a walker!

He found DRIVEN during the time of Covid. The center Dean was at before had ‘kicked him out’ due to his age and being a high-risk factor. But he’s grateful to have found DRIVEN because there was no one else out there and he was determined to keep moving. DRIVEN 

"DRIVEN has done a lot of good things to get me in shape and to where I'm at now, I feel lucky to have found them. "

When he's not doing his scheduled routine at DRIVEN, Dean and a couple of other members like to meet at places to eat, go sightseeing, and participate in their support groups. As he gained his strength back, Dean was also able to get his driver's license and vehicle, allowing him to be a little more independent. 

We invited Dean and his siblings to our Secret Garden near our studio. He preferred not to have his electric chair in the photo and was ecstatic when we asked if he was comfortable standing. He put his chair in 4-wheel drive, parked it to the side, and happily stood and posed against a couple of the garden's posts and trees. 

If you are or know someone who enjoys inspiring and uplifting others through their personal stories, please feel free to contact us.