Chris' Story
IM ABLE Founder Chris Kaag
“As a 21 year old U.S. Marine, I did not anticipate the words I received from my doctor in February of 1998, ‘you have Adrenomyeloneuropathy.’ I started experiencing difficulty lifting my feet and numbness in my legs when I would run. I just knew something was not right. After spending nine weeks in the hospital being tested, I received my diagnosis. I was somewhat relieved to finally know what was wrong with me.
Although the news of my diagnosis didn’t sink in immediately, I knew my life would change, and I would be faced with challenges I had never experienced. My walking became more and more labored, so I began using crutches, then a cane, then two canes, and finally a wheelchair. Regardless of what challenges were presented to me, I implemented the philosophy of ‘Improvise, Adapt and Overcome,’ that was ingrained in boot camp, and has become the core of who I am. As a result, I have pushed on and shown everyone that, no matter what your circumstances, you can put on a smile and move on.
In addition to maintaining a daily workout program, I began handcycling in 2002 and have not stopped since. Learning and adopting the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle has saved me from the depression and hopelessness I see in many who are faced with a life changing disability. Keeping active makes me feel ‘normal,’ and when I work out, I am competing against my physical fitness and myself, not my disability. Over the years since my diagnosis, I have seen what staying active can do for someone with a disability. I am always amazed by the drive and determination of individuals who have overcome their challenges and have pushed on and are making a difference in the way people view disabled people. We all have challenges to face, but it is up to the individual to make the choice to take that ‘next step.’ The IM ABLE Foundation wants to help people realize that they have the ability to go further and once they are aware of this goal, the possibilities are endless.”
