Attitude-
Back in 2015, President Barack Obama announced a Proclamation -- International Day of Persons with Disabilities as December 3rd. Scott Hamilton once said "The only disability in life is a bad attitude" and in many ways we at the Dustin Shillcox Foundation agree. Sitting in a wheelchair however, does give "us" a different perspective on what it means to have a disability.
25 years ago the The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was established and helped make our country more accessible and inclusive. For Dustin, it's not until he runs into an obstacle that he can't easily overcome, that he is even reminded he has a "disability". Dustin often writes and speaks in short inspirational videos and a short time ago, he shot a video showing what it's like to fuel up for gas from a wheelchair in 10 degree temperatures and a second video about what it's like to assemble his wheelchair in the snow and a third (that he thought was really funny) about getting in and out of the truck from his wheelchair. His attitude reflects Scott Hamilton's voice- it's about attitude. Most people would see these video and notice a "disability". Dustin does whatever he can to keep a positive attitude and is committed to working everyday, towards his goals of one day walking again, he shares weekly in a blog called Stand Up Sunday- No Days Off. In November, Dustin completed a marathon in New York City, The Cupid Run in February and in 2015 was Ambassador for the Wings For Life World Run that has the 2016 event coming up on May 8th with the hope to make spinal cord injuries curable. Dustin is excited on sharing about these and other opportunities to raise awareness and funds for spinal care research and support those with injuries.
Dustin is exceeding his expectations and that of doctors and because of cutting edge medical technology he can once again stand, and has gained back important bladder and sexual function. You would think after loosing these abilities Dustin would consider himself disabled, but no- he has the attitude of a champion!
In a press statement date December 3, 2015, the State Department announced "On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the State
Department reiterates its commitment to disability inclusive diplomacy,
including doing our part to support disability advocates around the
world in advancing disability rights." Dustin's focus is on regaining the use of his so called "disabled" body and helping others do the same. -"It's just a different perspective of what a true disability is. Attitude. What is yours?" -Nickel
Dustin launched a new clothing line to help support those affected by spinal cord injuries you can order your DSF Gear Now!
Check out my video and learn more about what The Dustin Shillcox Foundation is all about. It's about improving the moment.
I can Turn Myself on... Watch the video to see how the stimulator implanted inside of me works.
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
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