Help Hope Live for Tanner LaMagna
Tanner is a vibrant, adventurous young man whose life changed in an instant when he sustained a C5 spinal cord injury in a BMX racing accident. One moment he was chasing the finish line, the next he was facing the fight of his life.
Tanner has undergone multiple surgeries, countless hours of therapy, and long hospital stays — but through it all, his determination and sense of humor have remained unshakable. He is learning to navigate a completely new way of living, relying on medical equipment, specialized therapies, and adaptive technology to regain as much independence as possible.
Updates (3)
April 18, 2026
9 months, 2 days post accident. We kicked off the day with a DEXA scan which stands for Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry. It’s a quick, non-invasive scan that measures bone density and body composition. For Tanner, it helps us keep an eye on bone health and track changes as his body continues to adjust. We’re also deep in research mode trying to find the best option for a power chair that’s lightweight and easier to travel with. There’s a lot to consider, but we’re hopeful we’ll find something that gives him more freedom and flexibility when we travel. This afternoon marked Tanner’s last PT clinic session at Nazareth University. Ryan, Josh, and Betsy were incredible to work with. We are truly going to miss them. The progress Tanner has made since the beginning of this program has been nothing short of amazing. He’s gotten so much stronger, more confident, and capable. We’re beyond grateful for the students and the opportunity this program provides. On to the next chapter.
January 13, 2026
Today was the day.Tomorrow marks six months since Tanner’s accident.And since that very day, he has said one thing over and over:“I’m going to ride a bike again it might just look different."If you know Tanner, you know how much riding means to him.BMX. Mountain bikes. Dirt, speed, air — it didn’t matter. Riding was his joy. It was where he felt the most alive. And as a parent, questioning whether your child will ever feel that kind of joy again… it breaks your heart in ways you can’t put into words.When Tanner discovered the Bowhead and saw other quads riding, something lit up in him. He was determined. He knew that was how he would get back on a bike.And because of the incredible BMX tracks, riders, and supporters across the country who came together to raise funds… today, that dream rolled into our driveway.In this video, Dave starts out with the bike turned off, helping Tanner steer and get a feel for it.Then he turns it on… and lets him go.After some troubleshooting (which we’re still working through 😉), Tanner got on the Bowhead and rode — even if just for a few minutes.And I cried.Because that smile — the one I saw today — was bigger than any smile I’ve seen in months. Bigger than the ones you see in his videos. It was pure, real joy.All we ever want as parents is for our kids to have happy lives. To find their passion. To feel alive and hopeful.Today, Tanner did.Thank you to every single person who helped make this happen.Your kindness, generosity, and belief in Tanner gave him something priceless.We will be forever grateful. #TeamTanner#AdaptiveAthlete#NeverGiveUp#DisabilityAwareness#HopeInMotionBowhead Corp
Photo Galleries (1)
Guestbook
October 27, 2025
Praying for you and your family every day.
Anita Baker
October 9, 2025
You got this Tanner!! -Mary from Canandaigua
Mary Welsh
October 9, 2025
Tanner praying and cheering you on everyday!
Praying for your sweet family too!
Cheryl Allovio
