City: Buford

Brain Injury: Traumatic brain injury from a motorcycle accident in 2010.

Explanation of Mask: I was heading to work on my Kawasaki Ninja.  As I went through an intersection, an SUV turned towards me and caused me to wipe out.  After that, I don’t know what happened. When I was taken to the hospital, they didn’t think I would make it, but I kept breathing on my own.  My brain was swelling so badly that the surgeon had to remove part of my skull so my brain wouldn’t get any more damaged.  The injuries were bad. I was in a coma for about 5 weeks. I was in hospitals and rehab for a long time. I wasn’t able to stand or talk.  All I could say was yes and no. 

I have seizures, aphasia, and partial paralysis on the right side. I still go to therapy every week to continue to strengthen my body and improve my speech.

I used to own my own house, two BMWs (one to drive and one to restore), two bikes (one dirt bike and my Ninja) and a truck to haul them in, and a fancy bicycle.  I also had two dogs.  Now I live with my mom because I have seizures and can’t do everything on my own, but I keep trying to do more.  I’m still getting better, and I want to ride a Harley one day with my uncles and cousins. 

My mask is black because of the holes in my memory and all the things I’ve lost because of my accident.  I am grateful to be alive, for all the things I can do, and for my family and the support I have.  I miss my active lifestyle and the ability to do everything on my own.