My New Life As A Paraplegic
My name is Alex, I'm 27 years old from Mexico City and I'm a paraplegic. I work as a project analyst for a financial company. I really enjoy sports, soccer, and currently play basketball. I also enjoy going to the cinema, park, and recreational center. I was in an accident where I fell 10 meters causing a fracture in my spine among other medical issues.
I must accept my condition. I have nothing that allows me to accept that at any moment something can change. It was very frustrating and painful when I became injured. Fortunately, I have wonderful family and friends who never left me or let me hit rock bottom. Thanks to them and the desire to move forward, I recovered in many ways.
Moving Forward As A Paraplegic
I knew it was not going to be easy, but I was determined to get my life back. I knew it would not be the life I once had, but that I would certainly be whole again. My new life came with rehabilitation and integration therapies. I exercise to strengthen my arms, and I've started to resume movement in other areas of my body too. I recently realized that I needed a more practical wheelchair to carry my son, so I entered myself in a wheelchair driving course. It was an obstacle to learn to be able to move everywhere I wanted to go.
That also helped me learn to take public transportation using the chair. I started taking the subway and metrobus, which has been vital for learning to move around the city without any trouble. I was also invited to play on a basketball team, which I love because I used to play soccer. I am filled with joy when I play basketball. I practice hard so I can succeed. Being a part of the team without a doubt has helped me gain confidence as a wheelchair user. I am infinitely grateful for this opportunity because it has helped me feel confident, independent, and develop my skills in a work environment. I now receive a salary again, which has also helped me with my confidence level.
Now I feel completely adapted to my new situation. I have no idea what the future will bring, but the skills I have acquired and the decision to do what makes my life easier helps a lot for me to move forward in my life. I want to keep growing. I have a quote I really like, which is “NEVER GIVE UP” and I never will!
