Incomplete quadriplegic inspires students to aim high

Vernon students are being encouraged to push their limits, and to make the most of their school years, by an inspirational speaker.

Mike Shaw, skier, professional coach and incomplete quadriplegic, has been speaking at School District 22 high schools this week.

Shaw was once told he would never walk again, but he was determined to live his dream life, even if that meant he had to do it in a slightly different way.

In 2013, Shaw was coaching a group of skiers in Colorado, when he misjudged a take off on a jump and landed horribly wrong. Instantly, he knew he was seriously injured, as he could not move anything from the neck down. As the ski patroller called it, he was a “Code Black.”

Shaw felt his dreams were drifting further and further away, but in the first few days of recovery decided to change his mindset to one of gratitude.

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“You have to crash to progress,” Shaw said. “Especially in my sport. And if a door of opportunity closes, I had to look for another door or way to my goals and dreams.”

Shaw has brought a powerful message to students, encouraging them to dream big and activate their athlete mindset.

“Everybody goes through something that is hard, but you can get through it,” said Shaw.

Shaw spoke of the four pillars of the athlete mindset: Gratitude, Fail Forward, Possible vs Impossible, and Teamwork, and encouraged them to push their limits.

“Don’t let anyone tell you what you’re capable of,” Shaw told the students and staff in the audience. “Only you can determine that. And know that you’re capable of more than you think you are. We all have it within ourselves to push through. Apply yourself mentally, then physically, and aim high. And believe me, you will surprise yourself.”