Today marks 17 years of living with a spinal cord injury.
When I stop and think about it, I’ve now spent more than half as many years in a wheelchair as I spent walking before my injury. That’s a sobering thought. But it’s also a reminder of just how far I’ve come, especially considering my original prognosis.
The reality is that I’m still paralyzed. That’s something that never becomes easy. But over time, you adapt. You learn. You find new ways to live, to solve problems, and to move forward. Adaptation is the foundation of survival. We survive first, then we learn to thrive. And when we begin to thrive, we open ourselves to new possibilities. And that’s where the magic happens.
Recently, I committed to a major new project that I’ll be sharing more about soon. Ironically, it’s something I dreamed of doing long before my injury. It’s also a powerful reminder – to myself as much as anyone else – that life doesn’t end when adversity knocks you off your feet (literally). It simply changes. Our dreams don’t disappear. Our goals don’t vanish. Sometimes we just have to find a different path to reach them.
Seth Godin remarked that anniversaries represent a choice. They allow us to commemorate a commitment we made and then decide to recommit. A chance to celebrate the past and to imagine what comes next.
That’s why July 3rd will always be more to me than March 3rd.
Of course, none of these anniversaries would have been possible without the unwavering love and support of my family and friends. I never take that for granted. And I’m deeply grateful for the many blessings God has given me throughout this journey.
Here’s to another year of moving forward and unlocking some magic!
Happy Fourth of July!
(And remember… feet first.)
Stand Strong!
Scott
Thank you for the inspiration it means so much.
Jessica 🙂
You always inspire me , thank you for that.
Jessica 🙂
Hi Scott – you are such an inspiration and set such a good example for the rest of us. Miss our old Calphalon days. By the way, you still owe me some beers. Three to be exact. I have a handwritten note to prove it.
Keep thriving!!
~ Carrie Hertzfeld
Great post Scott, looking forward to seeing you soon and having a cigar!
Scott, I’ve followed your story and your resulting path these 17 years. You never cease to inspire me. In fact, I had to immediately copy & paste your words to Kristin, as well as my whole family:
“ We survive first, then we learn to thrive. And when we begin to thrive, we open ourselves to new possibilities. And that’s where the magic happens.” Thank you, & God bless you as you embark on your next 17! Dawn Martin (Kristin Martin Mancia’s mom)
Scott, I’ve followed your story and your resulting path these 17 years. You never cease to inspire me. In fact, I had to immediately copy & paste your words to Kristin, as well as my whole family:
“ We survive first, then we learn to thrive. And when we begin to thrive, we open ourselves to new possibilities. And that’s where the magic happens.” Thank you, & God bless you as you embark on your next 17! Dawn Martin (Kristin Martin Mancia’s mom)
I cannot believe I’ve been following you for 17 years. Never met you but have read your book. And have prayed for you. I am inspired by what you have been able to accomplish and that you are able to continue thru the trials that have come your way. Continued prayers that your life and projects will be full of pleasant surprises.
Hmm – What is Mr. Fedor cooking up now? I cannot wait to learn about what is coming next. You always amaze and astound! Thank you, Scott 🎆
Scott, I always seem to get around to reading your posts when I am feeling down, and you always give me perspective. I am grateful to have your words in my life. All my best, Martha
Dear Scott – Happy Fourth of July! We love you to the moon and back. Your posts are always remarkable and carry so much depth and meaning. A simple thank you is not enough to say to you. We are all extremely lucky to be on this journey of life with you as a dear friend and we are especially excited to hear about your next adventure… whatever that may be! STAND STRONG!
Scott, you HAVE Adapted and Thrived these past 17 years due to your incredible faith and willpower. Looking forward to hearing what the major project is.
Happy 4th!
Happy Independence Day, Scott. I know how this anniversary holds a great deal of significance for you. Bless you for being such an inspiration and role model to so many people. I’m looking forward to the reveal of the next project you’ve got in your pipeline!
I wait with anticipation to see what you are cooking up Scott. That Stevie Nicks song never gets old for me.
you are a true inspiration, scott. we all need to rewrite our game-plan when life makes a sharp turn. your faith and optimism touch so many in beautiful ways.
stay strong ♥️
God Bless you Scott and God Bless America!
Happy 4th Scott. Thank you for your updates and optimism. I’m happy to hear that you continue to thrive. Until next time. God Bless!
Scott,
I was thinking of you yesterday and remembering that 4th of July. You will always be an inspiration to me for your courage and fortitude. I feel so positive that one day you will be able to move again. I keep you in my prayers.
You are an inspiration!
I always look forward to your posts. Can’t wait to hear about your new project.
Your post today was particularly moving. My niece’s son, who is in the military, had a tragic accident while using the climbing wall on his base. It’s been a couple months now and he cannot move from the waist down. I am sending his mom your post with hopes that at the right time she will share with him.
Thanks for being who you are.
Continued prayers, Cathy
Scott –
Our thoughts and prayers are always with you!! You have an amazing positive attitude no matter the challenge over the past 17 years!! Enjoy the 4th of July with Family and Friends … all the best!!
Mike
Scott –
Our thoughts and prayers are always with you!! You have an amazing positive attitude no matter the challenge over the past 17 years!! Enjoy the 4th of July with Family and Friends … all the best!!
Mike
… And the days go by like a strand in the wind
In the web that is my own, I begin again
Love the lyrics of Stevie Nicks’ Edge of Seventeen
Also about rising above extreme adversity and loss
Love your post
Scott you are an amazing, incredible person and role model for so many
Can’t wait to hear about your next venture
With love
Sarah
Stand Strong. We are proud of you.
Thank you for your witness in sharing your story and commitment to being open to what God is calling you to do…prayers for what lies ahead!
I love the comment that our dreams don’t disappear, you just need to follow another path.
Happy 4th of July. I look forward to seeing your new endeavor.
Happy 4th July
Your are an inspiration and looking forward to hearing about next venture . X
Always inspiring! You are amazing!
Happy 4th of July, Scott ! Prayers for continued health/thriving and success on your new adventure.
Love you 😘