Theresa is a busy mother of three children. She joined the Health and Wellness Center at Paraquad last spring. She had recently fallen out of her wheelchair, and she wanted to learn how to get back into it independently.

When Theresa joined the Health and Wellness Center, she worked with staff to build strength in her arms and core. It was common to see her on the training mat on the floor, working toward transferring to her wheelchair. One day, two other members came over, got down onto the mat, and showed her how they got back into their wheelchairs. According to Theresa, the gym “helped me realize that, regardless of how big or small the task at hand is, approach it with the same effort and focus, each and every time. And it’s OK to ask for help.”

A year later, Theresa is still dedicated to her health and fitness. She is often seen working out with the battle ropes and arm bikes. Recently, she took another major step toward independence: she passed her driving test and is preparing to buy an accessible vehicle to accommodate her busy young family. As Theresa puts it, “You don’t always get what you wish for, but you always get what you work for. Like my tattoo on my leg says, ‘Life rolls on.'”