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Jerry D.
Jerry, who is 46 years old, contracted polio as a child and has used a wheelchair since the age of eight. Jerry was born in Barcelona, Spain and moved to the United States in the early 1970's with his family. Jerry's paralysis from polio leaves him with minimal use of most parts of his body. He has a full time caregiver who provides for his personal care needs and assists with in-home services. His family is very supportive and within the scope of their own capabilities, assists in providing for his needs.
He is unwavering in his determination that his disability will not deter him from pursuing his dreams.
Jerry's life has been one of strong determination. He is unwavering in his determination that his disability will not deter him from pursuing his dreams. In 1992, he won first place in the Table Tennis (Ping-Pong) competition in the Para-Olympics games in Barcelona and is among the top ten players in the world. He stated that his achievements are directly related to the motivation and support that he continues to receive from counselors and staff at Santa Monica High School and College. Jerry has also been successful in his educational accomplishments overcoming all odds of accessibility and other barriers; he received a degree in Behavioral Science from Loyola Marymount College. He currently works as a counselor for a state Mental Health program and is an active advocate for persons with disabilities.
Transportation and mobility are critical elements in his life. Jerry has used WISE Transportation since 1994 and applauds the van service as being a key contributor in his life accomplishments. He states that his positive outlook and spirit is a gift from God; that he is thankful for every day because it is provides him with endless opportunities to expand the circle of kindness to everyone.
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