Quadriplegic defeats paralysis and domestic violence with his book of poetry "Simple Thoughts!"
Background
Information
I was paralyzed on February 13, 1991 due to a spinal cord injury I received in an automobile accident. I was flown from the scene of the accident in a helicopter. It was a ride I did not purchase a ticket for, but I am where I am. Hopefully, the poetry in my book will somehow help you understand how I got here. I cannot tell you I am happy to be paralyzed, but I can tell you paralysis has made me a better person. I am proud that most of my major accomplishments have come after being paralyzed. I truly believe failure is an excuse used by those who choose to not succeed. I choose to succeed! My friend Michelle Vadie Maynard was allegedly killed by her husband during a domestic dispute. I included a poem entitled "Michelle's Last Laugh" in memory of her. As a result, $.10 from each book sold will be donated to the West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence. 10% from eBay proceeds go directly to Hope for Healing.Org (a charity helping victims of both domestic and sexual violence).
Birth Place
Crum, WV United States
Accomplishments
Published poet, author, and freelance writer. Business owner, independent contractor, and consultant. Award-winning artist (mouth paintings).