Before Injury

Before Injury

The first battle came before the first breath. Born a twin, survival began immediately. One life continued. One did not. Strength was forged early.

Another fight followed—severe childhood asthma. Endless hospital visits. Breathing became work. Quitting was never an option. Resilience became instinct.

At eleven years old, life shifted. A father removed due to substance abuse forced responsibility forward. The role of man of the house was assumed without hesitation. Protection, maturity, grit replaced childhood.

Energy demanded direction. Sports became the outlet.

Track led the way—100, 200, 1500 meters—followed by a deep connection to basketball. Fast point guard with ball handles and BIG UPS. Playing at a high-level competitively. MVP award earned among 100 elite players marked a turning point.

Discipline, focus, hustle became permanent traits.

Music balanced the grind. Dance in all forms. Breakdancing. Summer days filled with rhythm, playing congas with friends, fully present in the moment.

School years stayed social, fast-moving, full. Momentum built naturally.

Just before the injury, purpose was clear. Full-time landscaping through summer. Part-time work selling shoes at The Hudson’s Bay. Saving for the first semester of Business Administration. The future felt earned.