![DO3_site_Gala_Ad3[67]](https://ldt-offload.nyc3.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/dreamon3/2021/03/DO3_site_Gala_Ad367.png "DO3_site_Gala_Ad3[67]")
Meet Parker, a small-town 12-year-old with a big heart, quiet strength, and an unstoppable spirit.
Born with spina bifida, Parker is partially paralyzed from the waist down and fully paralyzed from the knees down. Regardless of what life has thrown his way, he’s never let his diagnosis slow him down. Parker tackles every challenge with a positive mindset. Whether he’s spending time with his close-knit family, playing fishing-themed video games, helping with DIY projects around the house, or hanging outdoors, Parker lives life to the fullest – especially when it involves fishing, his favorite pastime.
Described by his coach as the “Steph Curry” of his wheelchair basketball team, Parker is a standout athlete. He travels three hours each way multiple times a month to practice with the Charlotte-based Rollin’ Hornets, showing a level of dedication well beyond his years. He also plays wheelchair tennis and is always eager to take on new challenges in sports and life.
Parker has learned to adapt and overcome with incredible resilience. He inspires everyone around him with his determination and mental toughness. The outdoors isn’t naturally adaptive, which makes pursuing his passions one of his greatest challenges- but also where his perseverance shines most. Recently, fishing has become a special outlet for him that is peaceful, exciting, and therapeutic. His ultimate dream? Catch some bass with his favorite YouTuber, Ty PigPatrol!
