"My experiences, both inside and outside the classroom, have been with one goal in mind: helping to empower those who face adversity or discouragement of any kind. Through research, writing, and the spoken word, I have tried to use my own experiences as a vehicle to encourage others.

"In the years that I have lived with a physical disability, I have come to the realization that challenges and difficulties in life are neither equitably distributed nor often relenting. As a result of this, I have found that personal success is not only a function of achievement but also a function of the adversity that was overcome to reach that point, much of which goes unnoticed.

"I have been fortunate enough to have had extensive support from my loved ones, who have dedicated much of their time and energy to my well-being. I paid tribute to all of the people who have made adifference in my life in a personal memoir I published in 2001, entitled Miracles Happen.

"As I know that whatever accomplishments I have made in my life are in part thanks to those who have helped me along the way, I have tried to do the same for others. For as long as I have been able to doso, I have made an effort to help those in disadvantaged circumstances, who have not been as fortunate."