On Aug. 21, 2008 my life seemed perfect; I was starting my senior year at Mount Shasta High School and was a returning captain of the varsity football team. I had dreams to go on to the United States Coast Guard Academy and become a helicopter pilot.
On Friday, Aug. 22 everything changed. While playing in a multi team football scrimmage I suffered a C-5 C-6 spinal cord injury which left me a quadriplegic and confined to a wheelchair.
I had no idea what would lay in store for me within the next few months or possibly the rest of my life.
Honestly, the last thing I though I’d be doing nine months down the road, would be graduating on time with the group of friends that I had grown up with, but along with their help and the help from my teachers and Ray Huston, I have done it!
And I think about the past nine months, which involved countless doctors appointments and the never ending hours of different types of therapy, I have willingly accepted that I still have many more months and possibly years to go.
I don’t know how long it will take, but I will walk someday! I refuse to live my life sitting down. What I do know is that I could never have gone through this alone.
My family has been behind me 100 percent. My dad, Kevin Brooks, is the strongest person I have ever met. My mom, Ronna, goes beyond the call of duty to take care of me.
My brother Bryson has had to be stronger than anyone should ever have to be, not only playing on the same field I fell on, but emotionally keeping himself together setting an example for others to follow. I have found more respect for my brother than I could’ve ever imagined.
My youngest brother Mason and sister Cami are therapeutic within themselves. Their smiles and hugs have brought me through some of my darkest days.
I can’t thank enough my Papa, as well as my auntie, uncle and cousins for their never ending love and support. Along with the support from my family, my girlfriend Taylor, my closest friends, and all the community, I have been given the opportunity and tools to heal.
Sadly, I do not know each and every person who has given me this opportunity to get my life back on track, I don’t know how I could ever thank everyone enough for what they have done.
There are no words or famous quotes that I can say to express my gratitude to everyone, so all I can say is thank you! Without your help and support my recovery would be impossible.
Thank you to all who have supported me and never given up hope.

Stayin’ strong,
Corben Brooks
Mount Shasta