In 2007, my life changed when I was shot point-blank in the chest outside a San Francisco nightclub, leaving me paralyzed from the chest down. After spending 23 days in a medically induced coma, I woke up to learn I would never walk again. Rather than let this define me, it ignited a determination to fight against adversity and spread awareness about spinal cord injuries. This led me in 2007 to found Life Goes On Foundation (LGO), an organization dedicated to ending gun violence and promoting positive lifestyles through extracurricular activities.
Since then, I’ve spoken to 100,000+ youth across California, sharing my story and advocating for change. I’ve been recognized for my work, including being named a Home Town Hero and receiving a citation from the Oakland Mayoral Council Against Violence. Beyond my advocacy, music and wheelchair basketball have been crucial in my healing journey. In 2020, I released my debut album, A Letter to My Shooter, and now I play guard for the Golden State Road Warriors wheelchair basketball team.
I’m grateful for the support of my family, especially my mom and two brothers, who have been by my side through every challenge.