Inspiration at Every Turn

Spinal cord injuries often lead to paralysis, but with the technology of today, this does not mean you will never walk again.  Drive and motivation are the most powerful tools a paralysis victim can have.  The will to succeed along with the new exoskeleton technology, can make dreams come true.   Greg Durso of Long Island is living proof anything can be accomplished with faith, hope and desire. He is an inspiration to myself and my friend who holds all the same qualities and determination as Greg does.  My dear friend was recently paralyzed from the chest down from a spinal cord injury.  His inspiration and determination will ensure his success. 

Vocabulary:

inspiration(noun)-something that makes someone want to do something such as a force or influence that motivates someone

paralysis(noun)-a condition in which you are unable to move or feel all or part of your body

motivation(noun)-the condition of being eager to act or work, being encouraging

victim(noun)-a person who has been injured

succeed(verb)-to achieve a desired result

exoskeleton(noun)-an external skeleton like device that allows movement

technology(noun)-a machine or piece of equipment that is created by engineering

accomplished(adjective)-very successful, having done or achieved many good or important things

determination(noun)-a quality that makes you continue trying to do or achieve something that is difficult

Vocabulary Exercise:

Fill in the blanks with the correct vocabulary word from the Word Bank. Each word is only used once.

Word Bank

inspiration     motivation     paralysis     victim    succeed    technology     exoskeleton                 accomplished     determination 

1.  With the help from technology, the  _______________ victim was able to stand and walk again.

2.  We all respected his fierce _____________ to succeed despite challenges along the way.

3.  His courage and strength is truly an ______________ to us all.

4.  The ___________, or person who has been injured, continues to work hard each day.

5.  She hopes to __________ at her job and get a promotion. 

6.  Recent advances in medical _______________ have saved countless lives.

7.  When you have ___________, you are encouraged and have the eagerness to get your work done.

8.  An ________________ is an external skeleton like device that allows movement through nerve          and breathing patterns.

9.  The student _______________ his goals of making the honor roll after a lot of hard work and              studying.