I went to a benefit gala last night with very good friends. It was in honor of people with Spinal Cord Injuries. What a spectacular event! I saw everything from Acrobats performing stunts to a ballet dancer, to a Michael Jackson impersonator, and even rappers. Oh yeah, and Frank Sinatra too. I even watched someone dance on stilts 10 feet tall! It was a fun night!
The D-Man Foundation was created in loving memory of Danny Kassab, a C-1 quadriplegic who was hit by a car at the tender age of ten. He reminded others life is too short to not live to the fullest. An inspiration, he meant so much to countless others. He was not aware of the impact he would leave.
It was a night of festivities and events to honor people with disabilities, mainly Spinal Cord Injury. It was a beautiful night, and there were other people with injuries there. When I encounter these organizations that reach out to people with SCI, I feel so happy. It’s amazing to me the motivation and energy that people pour out into these non-profits, that mean so much in the lives of so many.
Other favorites are Challenged Athletes Foundation, and the Mike Utley Foundation. Both support in helping others with disabilities ranging from all kinds of maladies such as Spinal Cord Injury, or leg amputation. They provide grants for adaptable sports equipment, or donate money towards funding research to find cutting edge state of the art equipment for people with SCI to join in physical therapy. They even award money to lessen the stress of the person with the disability.
The most amazing thing about these organizations is each of them has a special story, with one special person behind them. Blessings can spring forth from catastrophe. “Through tragedy comes purpose. As purpose starts with pain. Purpose does not start in universities, or with ‘cushy’ jobs. It starts with pain, and sometimes we are hurt bad enough so we can be used.”
–Bishop TD Jakes
There is still not enough we can do about SCI, we are told there is no cure. The chances of walking after paralysis are often quoted as zero to four percent by doctors. These organizations offer a glimmer of hope, a light in the dark.
In what seems hopeless..
Peace of mind in crisis…
But the greatest of all, love.
“And now abide faith, hope, and love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” –Corinthians 13:13
notwithoutgod.net 
Very nice article! Thank you for mentioning the Mike Utley Foundation, it is very much appreciated! Thumbs Up!
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Hi Mike, thank you for stopping by. I don’t know if you remember me. I met you and Dani a few years ago at DMC, maybe 2009. You were so great to talk to, and you guys are so inspirational. I have the utmost respect for you. I’m thrilled by your visit!
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