Inspirational People: Tiphanie Barnes, lost fingers and toes but not her smile! She made the news with her new prostheses.

This story is amazing (I may be a little partial since she is an EastPoint patient).  Tiphanie is a beautiful young lady both inside and out.  She has been through many trials and has overcome them.  Thank you to “9 On Your Side” for giving over two minutes of TV air time for a heartwarming story.

Inspirational People: 6 Year-Old Cancer Survivor Plays T-Ball With Only One Arm

Riley Rhoden, this story is an inspiration. Watch how he catches the ball flips the glove off and throws it.

Inspirational People: The Wounded Warrior Softball Team take on Celebrity Softball Team

This video is amazing.  Kudos the the men on this team to make a positive impact and not let their disability get in their way.  There are a few funny parts, I like the part where they have some ideas what they would do if they were synchronized swimmers.

Inspirational People: Malek Mohammad 18 year old bilateral amputee wants to swim in the olympics for his country, Afganistan

Malek Mohammad refuses to let his “disability” get in the way of his dream. I could only wish I could do a handstand like this. Check out his story and a great picture.

Inspirational People: Alex Ried, 17 year-old basketball player

Alex Ried was born with a condition called fibular hemimelia. His parents had the agonizing decision of whether to put their son through an amputation or try radical reconstruction surgeries. They chose the amputation and he is making the most of life. This article is truly inspiring.

It should be noted that I am a huge fan of the liner and lock combination he is wearing. In my opinion, it is difficult to go wrong with an Alpha Select liner and a Coyote Locking Mechanism. (just my two cents)

Inspirational People: Italo Fernandes Romano world-class skateboarder…does not let his above the knee amputations get in the way of greatness

You must to see Italo Fernades Romano ride, he is a creative artist on a skateboard.  His story is amazing!  Check out his story and a video of him riding here.

Inspirational People: Padon Comer, Missing his legs since birth does not keep him off the soccer field

Padon Comer is the greatest teammate you could ask for.  He is a positive inspiration to his team and brings them a great deal of energy.  I loved this story.

Check out Padon’s story here.

Inspirational Poem: Erin Hall, 13 years old wrote it. “Problems of a Handicapped Child”

We have this poem hanging in our office.  To me it is a reminder that the mind is powerful even though the body may have a “disability.” The other theme of this poem is children are in touch with their emotions and that is something to really keep in mind when interacting with them.

“Problems of a Handicapped Child” by Erin Hall (age 13)

How I wish I knew what it’s like
To run or walk or even ride a bike.
Yes, I can do some things other people do,
But there are limitations I cannot break through.

Everyday life is hard for someone like me.
Yes, I have problems I wish people could see.
I have my own friends just as you,
But sometimes I think they have better things to do.
From some people I get looks and stares
While others call me names.
Some think that riding in a chair is all fun and games.

Life often can be sad,
but I have friends who stand by
Through good times and bad.
I don’t want your pity,
Don’t be sorry or blue.
All I want is to be one of you.

Sometimes I cry,
While other times I laugh
For all the good times and memories I have.

I thank the good Lord above
For giving his care and showing his love.
I am thankful to know he has given to me
a good family and friends
to help me cope with
the problems of a handicapped child.

Inspirational People: Chetan Korada, a young man in the fast lane of Formula Swift Car Racing.

This story is amazing.  Chetan Korada is 25 years old and making noises by being a top Tier Race Car Driver in Formula Swift series.  He is missing both of his legs but that does not slow him down.  My favorite quote from him is, “When I finished my first race, everyone was convinced that I would not endanger their lives on the track. Since then, my peers has been treating me like just another competitor.”  Check out his story here.

Inspirational People: Kiri Schroeter, Born with no hands and no feet but plays the drums.

 

Kiri Schroeter is an amazing young man.  He has not let his lack of extremities keep him down.  Check out his story here.