Dr. James Perdue author of One More Play is my guest.
Dr. James Perdue website: www.JamesPerdueSpeaks.com
James was a normal 19 year old with expectation of playing professional baseball, the major leagues. He was attending Martin Methodist College in Pulaski, Tennessee on a baseball scholarship. He had the attitude of being invincible. After only being in college for two weeks and playing one college game in the fall, unexpected tragedy came a calling.
On September 11, 1983, James became a quadriplegic, dislocating three vertebras in his neck, from playing a football game. The doctor said, “James, I’m sorry. You’ll never walk again and you might be paralyzed from your neck down.” Later, the doctor advised his family to put him in a nursing home; he would be too much of a burden for them to take care.
Hear how Dr. Perdue worked hard to achieve success as a teacher and coach. He has been awarded Fox 17 Top Teacher of the Week 2005, Teacher of the Year 2002, as well as, Coach of the Year 2006 and 2000. He received the Jo Andrews Award 1995 and the Dr. Ramer Award 1991 both for overcoming adversity. Recently, he received his doctorate degree, in May 2011, from Tennessee State University. His demonstration of not giving up and striving through major challenges is apparent. Dr. Perdue knows he can help others pass through to the other side of tragedies to become triumph and become a survivor of difficulties.
“It is our responsibility to help each other before tragedy hits. When unexpected suffering happens we should encourage, motivate, inspire, and help the hurting continue life. We start with baby steps. First, let’s get pass the first hour with help from our families and friends.