PARALYZED HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR WALKS AT GRADUATION

Courtesy of Hamodia

For the last three years, Patrick Ivison of San Diego, California, has undergone six hours a day of intense physical therapy. His goal? To walk to receive his diploma at his high school graduation.

Nearly 17 years ago, when he was 14 months old, Patrick was in a car accident that left him paralyzed.

Being in a wheelchair has never stopped Patrick, and he even learned to surf. Last Tuesday night, Patrick fulfilled a big promise he made three years ago: to walk at his graduation.

After his name was called, Patrick - with the help of his trainer and custom walker – stood up and walked. As he made his way across the stage, the crowd rose and encouraged him every step of the way.

Now, Patrick has a new goal. “Maybe do jumping jacks at college graduation or something?” he said. “I don’t know… let’s not put that for sure because I can’t commit to that one.”