Redefine What’s Possible – Embrace the Journey with Nattitude
Dreams of a Bright Future
As a teenager, I had a clear vision for my future.
Before life took an unexpected turn, I was full of hope and ambition. I envisioned a future where every challenge was simply another opportunity to shine. As a teenager, I saw the world as a canvas of endless possibilities. I dreamed of playing softball for my favorite university, feeling the thrill of competition and the pride of representing a team that believed in hard work and dedication. I pictured myself on the field, my heart pounding with excitement, every game a step toward proving that dreams, no matter how bold, are within reach.
Academically, I set my sights on earning a degree in physical therapy. I believed that with my passion for helping others and a commitment to excellence, I could make a real difference in people’s lives. I imagined working hands-on with patients, using my knowledge and empathy to guide them through their own recoveries. My goal was not just personal success, but a deep, lasting impact on the lives of those who needed support and care.
A Life-Altering Moment
On December 29, 2007, during my sophomore year in high school, my world turned upside down. A skiing accident left me with a cervical spinal cord injury, rendering me paralyzed from the neck down. In an instant, I went from envisioning a future full of possibilities to facing a reality that seemed to strip away everything I had ever imagined.
Doctors told me I’d never achieve my dreams, that my life was about to change in ways I couldn’t even fathom. But the competitive, determined part of me wasn’t ready to accept that verdict.
Embracing the New Reality
I decided to fight back, to forge a new path even when the odds were stacked against me. I called this relentless spirit “Nattitude.” It’s a commitment to keep moving forward, to see challenges not as dead ends but as stepping stones on the journey to becoming a stronger, more resilient person.
I had to relearn basic tasks that many take for granted—getting dressed, navigating everyday spaces, and even simple things like combing my hair. Each small victory was a reminder that progress is built on perseverance, and every setback was an opportunity to redefine my limits.