Tom Burke joined Achilles in July of 2015. He’s shown no sign of looking back since then! This is his story in his own words:
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Nine years ago, on August 21st 2006, I was involved in a car accident, which left me with a broken neck. My initial diagnosis was that I would never walk again. I spent six months in hospitals and inpatient rehabilitation at Magee Rehabilitation Center in Philadelphia. When I left Magee I was wheelchair bound, and had to figure out how to acclimate myself to daily activities being outside a rehab facility. After months of rigorous outpatient therapy, I slowly worked my way up from walking with a walker, to walking with two forearm loft stands, to now walking with two canes. according to the private rehab facility I have to continue to work out and retrain my body to continue to progress with my health every day. Although I am still working on progressing with my physical goals, I have accomplished my educational goals I set for myself by graduating with honors with Master’s Degree in Business Administration and a concentration in Finance.
I was introduced to Achilles through Victoria Baker. After attending my first Achilles meeting, and getting the opportunity to ride a hand cycle I was hooked. I played football all throughout high school, and sports have always been a huge part of my life. Being able to train with Achilles has given me back the sense of being a part of a team. Being able to compete again would help fill a void that I never thought I would be able to get back. Having my own hand cycle would give me the opportunity to train, and fulfill the goal that I now have in competing in marathons. Being able to compete and represent the Philadelphia chapter of Achilles would give me great pride.