In the early months of 2020 Israel was an EMT dedicated to serving his community. As a 22-year-old, he was focused on working hard to make a name for himself in his career. 

In April of 2020, Israel’s life changed in an instant. He was a passenger in a terrible car accident that caused the car to roll over multiple times, split a tree and left Israel with a spinal cord injury. Israel was told by doctors that he would be a paraplegic for the rest of his life. 

Since he was discharged from the hospital, Israel has worked hard in his recovery to regain his independence. But over the past three years he has lost weight, which means his wheelchair does not fit him properly anymore, causing terrible and unnecessary pain. The large and bulky wheelchair is also severely limiting Israel’s independence as he can only access certain parts of his home. 

Unfortunately, insurance will not consider covering a new wheelchair until 2026. 

The Victory Scholarship Israel received this summer allowed his to get a new wheelchair that fits him properly and further his independence in day to day activities. As Israel says, “This scholarship is the next step in feeling comfortable again.”

Thank you to ALL who help to make victories like this a reality.