I've always believed in giving back to the community in whatever possible way you can. Since being in radio, I have had the honor to help many of these great organizations and/or charities This past weekend I came to learn of one organization that does amazing work for a group of people who have no one else to turn to except the good hearts at Next Step Orlando Paralysis Recovery Center. I had the great honor of being co emcee for their 10 Year Celebration Gala.

The heroine behind this facility is Liza Riedel who started NextStep Orlando after her daughter, Amanda was in a car accident and was injured leaving her a quadriplegic. The frustration Liza and many of her clients found was that there was only so much that a hospital or insurance would cover in helping those living with paralysis. NextStep reports that "1.3 million people in the U.S. suffer from spinal cord injuries (SCI). Insurance coverage for those individuals averages just 36 days in rehab, leading to $220,000-$775,000 in average first year expenses incurred by an SCI patient."

NextStep facilities are throughout the country however, a unique facility like theirs was not available in the south east. Their facility offers "standardized activity-based therapy programs and interventions, based on research; our centers provides the best chance for recovery, independence, and health."

In talking to the many clients and supporters of our local NextStep facility, I could see they are so grateful to Liza and her trainers and all who work hard to help their loved ones stay healthy, positive and enjoying life.

Please consider donating to NextStep Orlando because their work are little miracles everyday. And we need more miracles in our life.

A heartfelt thank you. ~Grace Vasquez of Sunny 1059fm and our Co-Host for the gala