The next step...

My experience in New York and for the entire preparation to be there has been a great learning point for me. I've worked out, trained hard, went on a diet, and worked on my public speaking over the last 6 months. Being in New York and completing the New York City Marathon was a great achievement for me even though I was 11 minutes over my predicted time. I also had the opportunity to be in magazines and covered by some local news casts which kind of brought me to the next step.

photo by Christine DiPasquale

The goals I have now are a little different...

First, I'm still going to work with the stimulator and keep making progress in spinal cord research.

Second, I plan to keep doing motivational speaking, improving peoples lives, and growing the Dustin Shillcox Foundation.

Third, now that I can stand, I'd like to do things that are challenging for me and dancing is one of them. So, if Taylor Swift would accompany me in my first dance, that would be amazing. (After all, wheelchair dating is difficult.)

Fourth, I'm going to keep working out, staying fit, training and improving my life because I know that walking one day will be in my future. It's just going to take dedication and hard work, but I'm ready for the "next steps" in my life!

Fifth, The Dustin Shillcox Foundation is partnering with Rivengear and going to start a clothing line and the proceeds will go towards individuals who are in need of assistance for physical therapy and spinal cord research. 

I have so many goals to work on right now, but one step at a time!!

-Dustin 

Dustin Shillcox’s life drastically changed when he was in a car accident August 2010 and sustained major spinal cord damage, a broken upper arm, collapsed lungs, broken ribs, cracked sternum & mild brain injury. Dustin’s complete T-5 spinal cord injury (SCI) left him with no feeling below his mid-chest, causing paralysis from the chest down.

Now paralyzed, and living his life in a wheel chair, Dustin was told he would never again be able to move below his waist again, but after participating in a cutting edge SCI research project, at the University of Kentucky in Louisville, he is now able to move his legs and stand once again. Dustin is living his life to the fullest, sharing his story, journey of overcoming obstacles, and faith while raising funds for spinal cord research. Through his motivational speaking and the Dustin Shillcox Foundation, he is helping to improve the lives of people in wheelchairs.

Dustin delivers an inspiring message about never giving up, and the power of a positive attitude in his speech "What Are You Gonna Do Now?" Inquire about Dustin's availability to speak at your next business meeting, conference, charity event, school, church or graduation event. If you are looking to inspire your crowd to overcome personal challenges, and motivate into action, Dustin needs to be your next call! 307.870.6764

written by Nickel Lowman