Don, Age 71: 'Disability is a Small Price to Pay'

   As a seven-year-old boy studying the catechism, Don vividly recalls being moved by the beatitudes, especially, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God” (Matthew 5:8). Out of the blue, this Scripture would come to mind and tears would fill his eyes, often while simply walking down the street. Even though Don knew Christ came and died on the cross, he didn’t really understand why Christ died for him. As he grew older, Don questioned many of the rules and rituals taught by his religion. Aside from going to church, Don basically went about his life giving little thought to God.

   Fast forward to July of 1978. Don and his family were celebrating his dad’s birthday at the lake. It was a hot summer day. His brother wanted to go swimming. Don didn’t like getting wet slowly; he preferred to jump right in and get wet all at once. So he decided to get up on the new dock and dive in, even though the water was not very deep. After diving off the dock, his body went numb. Everything turned dark, then light -- and his world kept alternating like that. Next thing he knew, his brother was pulling him out of the water. Don lay on the grass motionless. Soon, paramedics came and placed Don on a transfer board and rushed him to the hospital.

   Don had broken his neck. He was paralyzed from the upper chest down. Doctors said he would be a quadriplegic for the rest of his life. No more hunting or fishing -- ...