Mass Shooting Survivor Will Walk Again

  On October, 29th 2019 I became paralyzed after myself and coworkers were attacked by an unknown gunman in Long Beach, California. As a result of the shooting three people were murdered and nine people sustained gunshot injuries including the birthday girl herself. Although I became paralyzed on this night I still consider myself to be one of the lucky ones. I sustained a single gun shot in my neck where the bullet exited the opposite side of my back damaging my spinal cord leaving me paralyzed from the chest down. While this injury has taken a great toll on me both mentally and physically I am determined not to allow it to take away my happiness and overall joy for life. The everyday struggle for a person with a spinal cord injury was completely foreign to me before I became injured. Today, after ten months since the night my life changed I am well aware of the highs and lows people with spinal cord injuries endure on a regular basis. I have seen people triumph as well as those who see no hope for a better tomorrow. I want to share my experience with those people who don’t feel encouraged enough, hopefully to empower others who believe the hopelessness of the present will last forever. 

  My goal is to some day walk again. Before thisinjury I lived an active lifestyle which included many adventures such as hiking, swimming, climbing, running and I even played college basketball in the NCAA. I know that the road to recovery won’t be an easy one but I have already accepted the challenges and obstacles that await me as I embark on this journey that won’t be perfect, but still beautiful nonetheless.

   Unfortunately, the recovery process does not just require the right attitude and approach but also the available recourses necessary for continued therapy, which is why I need the help from you all. 

  I want to thank each supporter and every contribution towards me reaching my goal and I am inviting all to witness what God has planned.

  So thank you again and I look forward to sharing my success with you ! 

-Jasmine.