City: Albuquerque

Brain Injury: Motorcycle accident resulting in a TBI at age 18 years.

Explanation of Mask: The primary color of Gary’s mask is black, his favorite color.  Within it is displayed, “Never Give Up,” his life motto since his injury.  The mountain represents his perseverance he has exhibited along his journey as he continues every day to move mountains, even if it is one granule of sand at a time.  The heart in his eyes show he sees with his head.  Although Gary cannot speak, he tells his love story with the most amazing strength and courage and lives his everyday life with unending faith.  Gary has learned family is the center and most important part of his life.  He has a smile that will melt even the coldest of hearts, and he lives every day to its fullest.