Many of you know Adam as the first Paraplegic to walk the Cooper River Bridge Run/Walk, but I know him as an amazing person and friend. Ten years ago while at the wheel of his car, Adam dozed off and ran off the road. He awoke with a devastating outcome… a severed spinal cord and a new reality of life in a wheelchair.
Fast forward to last year when Adam was able to bring home the latest technology, a “ReWalk Exoskeleton” (a battery-pack based unit which he describes as a cross between Iron Man and Avatar). Needless to say, Adam is full steam ahead on this new chapter of his “walking upright” life, and he is committed to bridge the gap between what it means to be disabled and able-bodied.
My path crossed with Adam a few months back, while attending a luncheon at Tavern & Table (which, btw, I love!). Adam was the guest speaker, and little did I know, he would change my life…(well, at least my attitude). About how fortunate my life is, and how determination can help me achieve anything I set my mind to do!
A few weeks later, while at the gym (for the first time in months) I saw Adam and introduced myself. I told him how he inspired me to up my game. And next thing I know, his words set a fire in me… “Jackie, I challenge you to do a 1/2 marathon!” And I, in turn said, “Adam, I challenge you to do the same.” TOTALLY OUT OF OUR COMFORT ZONES! But we shook hands and on it and started a 24 week training program in preparation for the Walt Disney World Half-Marathon, in January of 2017.
The experience was AMAZING to say the least! And I am so proud of Adam, as he pushed himself to complete parts of the 5K, 10K and Full Marathon.
And what about my experience? I was super nervous for the run, but trained and ready. Then the bad weather came in… thunder and rain… and the Disney execs were forced to cancel the race. I looked at is my “GET OUT OF JAIL FREE” card and was thrilled to be able to skip the run and spend the day at the park with my family! When I returned home, I was able to complete the Folly Beach “Save The Light” half marathon, and the experience was beyond words. I would have never thought I could do such a thing, but with Adam’s inspiration, I am now proud to have the coveted “13.1” sticker on the back of my car! Yeah!
Stay tuned to learn more about Adam and his 1 million steps tour, where he has dedicated himself to he raise money and awareness to help other paraplegics. Super inspiring stuff! Follow his journey at I GOT LEGS: Team Adam: One-Million Steps Tour.
The Village Connection :: Old Village Real Estate :: Mount Pleasant, SC 
Thanks for this one!!!
Sent from my iPhone
>