A Mission to become a Paralympian

My name is Carlos Quintanilla Jr. I was born In 1999 with Spinal Bifida (Myelomeningocele)  a neural tube defect in which the bones of the spine do not completely form, resulting in an incomplete spinal canal. I did have the ability to walk when I was younger I was even on a T-ball team.  I have currently had twenty five surgeries literally from head to toe. I have always been provided a wheelchair but never wanted to use it. I didn’t like to go to public places and be seen. If I had to go I would attempt to walk until the pain was unbearable. On January of  2013 was when I had my last back surgery, the result of which made it even more difficult to walk. Now I had no choice but to use my wheelchair, my greatest insecurity became my greatest strength.

 Accomplishments

My personal accomplishments are promoting a top end sports wheelchair from Invacare. I am periodically on the back the Sports and Spokes magazine. I am also on an adult  wheelchair basketball team. I have competed in multiple NJDC (National Junior Disability Competitions). I have completed five 5ks runs in my chair and appeared on  Extreme Makeover Home edition as well as a BP commercial (link below). I have done many fundraisers for my paralympic sports clubs. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xko-7NYOG2c

Goals

Even with all the accomplishments  that I have achieved up to this point there is still a lot that I want to do. One of which is becoming a Paralympian star. I believe that a person is able to accomplish anything regardless of your background, education or disability.

I’m a hard worker, I practice hard, giving up is not an option.  I want to be an inspiration to others disabled or not.  Never give up. Always look up.

 My coaches and I believe that I have Olympic potential. As you well know any competition requires support. This entails, Travel expenses, equipment, and entry fees. I would like to thank you in advance for your support in any manner.  If you would like to help this future Paralympian.