Johns Fight Against Paralysis

Hello, my name is John Marquez. On February 15th I had a life changing experience. While on my way to work I was traumatically hit by a car that failed to stop at a stop sign. When I woke up in the ambulance, all I could remember was not feeling or being able to move anything below my chest. I was rushed to Miami Jackson Trauma Center, where I would later find out that I had suffered a fractured rib, 2 lung contusions, and a life changing spinal injury. With multiple fractures in the thoracic spine from T2 to T6; the worst are fractures at the T5 vertebrae which are life threatening and have caused paralysis making me paraplegic. After just one week in the ICU, I was transferred to the Lynn Rehabilitation Center where I am currently fighting everyday to get stronger and more mobile.

The day after my accident I told everyone that I had been given the opportunity to show the universe that anyone can overcome anything and that I will run again one day. Through my hard work, day in and day out, I have been creating the best chances towards curing my paralysis. What this means from a scientific perspective is: I must attempt to create new neural pathways ways by promoting neuroplasticity, which in the past has only shown to see progression up to 18 months post injury. Recovery requires different types of costly equipment, along with many therapy sessions. Thankful for all the love and support I have received thus far, I have started a GoFundMe in order to help receive the best recovery available including: rehabilitation, therapy sessions, and transition into a living space that has ADA accessibility and equipment. I cannot predict the future or what it holds for me but I do know that I am determined to create the best outcome for myself by working extremely hard every day to do so.