Luis is an Army Vet with the goofiest personality but a strong commitment to his recovery, even while quarantined at home during the coronavirus pandemic.

Take us through an average day in your life before your injury?

Wake up 5:40a.m., go to PT come back shower and put on my military uniform. I would then eat breakfast and report to formation at 9am. After formation I would report to work til approximately 5pm. After work go home shower and chill out.. The day in the life of Luis.

How did your Spinal Cord Injury occur?
I got injured while serving in the Army deployed in Iraq. I was operating a tank while on an assigned mission. Unfortunately close to completing the task a wall fell on me, breaking my neck and severely damaging my vertebrae C3/4 that was replaced. My condition of quadriplegic, was the result of this event..

How did you find NextStep Orlando?

I found out about NextStep Orlando through my Home Healthcare Agency

How has NextStep Orlando and Activity Based Therapy helped you in your recovery?
Physically it helps my muscle mass wake up, engage and improve on my precision. Also helps me socialize with people similar to me...

What are your goals?
Recover much as I can specially my core, arms and stay active...

What is your advice to someone who hasn't tried Activity Based Therapy?
Try to get out of your comfort zone. It will bring your confidence back. Building a routine with a purpose will help break chains , and demons. Positive doors will open trust the process.

What motivates you?

Having a third chance in life, Faith, family support as well as unconditional Love, and sprinkle my personality. Priceless.