Dylan Hickey Gainesville, Florida , United States

c5/6, August 1986

On August 10th 1986 I fell from a tree injuring my spinal cord. I believed I would soon walk again but alas, it was not to happen. I didn't quit living however and continued to pursue life. I fell in love with beautiful women, had a a wonderful child, went to school, became an artist, and refused to succumb to the the life of an 'invalid'. However, it hasn't been without perseverance and struggle, taking its toll on my body. I am however, spiritually and emotionally stronger than ever, as my 30th year closes. I only hope that this event produces palpable results in time to benefit myself and other quads, but if not perhaps for the future. I must say though, that having lived with this disability and seen the constant promises made of "function return results in 5 years" since 30 years ago, I have lost faith that corporations really desire to see remedies happen. One must honestly question their motives. Nonetheless I give you my full support, and only ask that I may be able to have function return enough for me to move my thumb and fore-finger before my time here is up.