On January 12, 2007, nearly 9 years ago, Ammon was in a wrestling tournament competing for his high school when he sustained a traumatic spinal cord injury leaving him paralyzed from the chest down (level C4/C5). Ammon spent 26 days in an ICU, undergoing two major surgeries and several “minor” procedures, followed by two months in a rehabilitation center. After rigorous therapy Ammon recovered the use of his biceps and strengthened his shoulders and neck giving him just enough function that, when coupled with the right technology, has enabled him to press forward in life, achieving much and at a remarkable pace.

Of course, Ammon will tell you his achievements have not been his own; many have contributed tangibly and intangibly to Ammon’s ongoing success, and, for that, Ammon is extraordinarily grateful. What you and I so frequently take for granted is an insurmountable barrier for Ammon without the help of others. Something as simple and as fundamental as getting ready for the day has a cost tied to it that people like us never could have imagined others in this world would have to pay. Ammon certainly was not aware of the price of achievement in spite of having a disability until after his accident.