Navy Commander William S. has devoted over 23 years of his life in service of our country. While still on active duty, he began experiencing progressive weakness in his legs due to a rare condition causing herniation of the spinal cord. Surgical intervention was necessary but resulted in partial paralysis leaving him unable to walk and confined to a wheelchair. Bill has since transferred from Walter Reed to
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago where he is making steady progress in his rehabilitation. SALUTE, INC. has assisted Will by purchasing a ramp and stair lift so that he can continue his recovery with the support of his wife and six children as they return to their home in Maryland.
“When we were told Bill required surgery for a herniated spinal cord, we were frightened. No one wants to hear that their upcoming operation is not a routine easy fix. On April 26, 2019, our life as we have known it changed. Bill courageously walked into his spinal surgery and returned from the operating room paralyzed.
We are so hopeful that Bill will walk and possibly run again. (He was a 2:36 marathoner for the Navy’s marathon team.) If you know him at all, you know he is up to the challenge. Your support will allow Bill to head upstairs, tuck our little ones into bed, and for him to live comfortably in the home we have grown to love. ” Laura S.