Meet Damien!
Meet 18-year-old Damien! Damien was diagnosed with shizencephaly and cerebral palsy on his first birthday after he wasn’t meeting typical baby milestones, and he presented left side paralysis. Damien has had several surgeries over the years including tendon lengthening, Botox treatments, and a nerve ending surgery on his spine to help loosen his muscles. He is wheelchair bound and needs assistance with all transfers.
Damien has never let his diagnoses define him. He is very intelligent, quick to learn and excelled in all his classes- his favorite being art. Damien is also a very caring and patient young man, who makes sure his pet rabbit Mac gets the attention and love he deserves. Damien’s hobbies include playing car racing video games, Pokemon, fishing, and golf. His sports teams of choice are the New York Yankees and the Miami Dolphins. He also has a diverse taste in music, listening to artists such as Ed Sheeran and Jelly Roll. Damien’s determination and willingness to never give up are just some of the exemplary qualities that make him such an outstanding person.
Damien has a power wheelchair that he uses daily, but due to the weight, it is hard to transport him. He received a Phoenix lightweight power chair, which he can now operate with ease and take with him when he is on the go! Special thanks to the Tampa Bay Rays Baseball foundation for being his generous sponsor!