Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Saskia FIsher, Fort Lauderdale, FL — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:23:51 GMT

What a great story!!! This kid sounds amazing...Jenna Wolfe ---once again...great job - Keep it up!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Pat A., Kensington, MD — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:54:11 GMT

Great story. To learn more about amazing programs similar to this, check out Disabled Sports USA at www.dsusa.org. They hold programs like this all across the country and serve everyone from youth with spinal cord injuries (including Patrick) to seriously injured service members returning from overseas.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Rebecca, Eastport, Maine — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:55:30 GMT

Amazing story! Just watched the interview with Ann. I think Ann has such a wonderful way with people, and I know she will be true to her word and be there when he graduates, even if the show isn't. He is such a remarkable influence for young people!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Greg, Cleveland, Ohio — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:56:48 GMT

Patrick is what makes this reporting exceptional. I would like to know how it is possible he is regaining movement. What is physically changing that enables him to move?

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

simone melo, east providence r.i. — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:58:15 GMT

NO! No tears before breakfast! This kid & his mom are AMAZING!!! This is exactly the thing I try to think about when I'm having a not so good day, Patrick's spirit would put me to shame! I really think that he will walk across the stage at his highschool graduation. Thanks for the uplifting story!!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Gina R. — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:59:16 GMT

Patrick--you are so determined...I know you will walk across that stage at your graduation and am looking forward to watching it happen. Keep up the positive attitude and determination---and the smiles. It will take you a long way!!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Lindsay Martin, Miami, Florida — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:01:07 GMT

What an amazing story!!!!! Patrick is truly an inspiration.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Katy Cutshaw, Morristown, Tennessee — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:02:18 GMT

That's awesome how he has achieved so much. I'm a Quadriplegic myself. Oct. 8th will be my 7th year in a wheelchair. I've tried alot of sports like he has but never thought of surfing. Maybe I'll give it a try someday.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Erica, Springfield, MA — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:03:00 GMT

Wow! What an inspiration this guy is! I can only strive to live everyday to the fullest like Patrick does. We need more inspiring stories like his. Keep on movin' on, Patrick!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Lisa H, Rocky Point NC — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:04:23 GMT

I pray that Patrick will continue his whole life to inspire others the way he does now. I know that in doing that he will walk accross that stage, maybe even before his senior year. I have complete faith in God and Patrick. May he and his family continue to be blessed.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Ellie, Boca Raton, FL — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:04:23 GMT

What an absolutely amazing young man. An inspiration to all. So many young people (older, too) go through life without appreciating what they have. Patrick has lost so much; however, what he has he so appreciates. God bless you, Patrick. Keep up the good work. You WILL walk across the stage and I will be among the thousands waiting to see your reach your goal.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Aimee Ronzoni Southwick, MA — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:07:48 GMT

This was an amazing story. What an amazing young man!! I wish you luck with your next goal of walking to get your diploma. I know you can do it!! Keep up the great work!!!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Theodore Brown, Valley City, OH — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:09:49 GMT

This young man is amaizing! We all think that life can be cruel and difficult. We complain so much about all of our problems until we see a young man like Patrick surviving a tragic accident and overcoming barriers so he can walk agaain and live his life as normal as possible. We all need to realize that sometimes we have it so good compaired to this young man who has to regain his life back and fight each day to continue his dreams and ambitions. God bless you Patrick. I want to see the Today Show at your high school graduation in four years! You inspire me to be a better person.

God Bless

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Anonymous — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:14:52 GMT

Let's not forget his sister. What a sweetie! How many adolescent girls would be so supportive, so giving, so willing to forego (undoubtedly) much of the attention girls her age generally demand? An truly amazing and inspiring family.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Sam Ivison, San Diego, CA — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:20:43 GMT

Good Job BIG BROTHER

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

yogi Surf City NC — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:20:56 GMT

Its so good to hear these stories.Thanks!I am going to see what I can do to help.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

May — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:36:39 GMT

Patrick and his mom puts all of us to shame for whinning and complaining and gripping about things that really aren't that important, but we allow it to destroy relationships and robs us of peace in our hearts. Mom, you are amazing!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

James B. Ryan — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:43:06 GMT

Patrick, you are an inspiration to everyone healthy or sick who have been denied of a chance "just because....." Keep strong Patrick, we would like to see you take your first step in 3 or 4 years for your graduation! We are thinking about you.

The Ryans
Yellowknife, NWT
CANADA

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Jen Brown — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:46:20 GMT

When I was an intern at the San Diego Union Tribune, I happen to run across an incredible surfer named Jesse Billauer. I spent a lot of time with him, and sharing his story in the paper was my most challenging assignment, as well as the feature I'm most proud of. So I was very excited when Jenna told me about her experience with Patrick. Jesse is only briefly mentioned in the piece, but it's enough to know he is still inspiring others and rolling on. What a small world.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Joe — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:56:37 GMT

Jenna W. is an awesome interviewer! She reminds me of Katie Couric. She has a great way with people and keeps the viewer interested in this fantastic story. Great work! I tune in TODAY more now that Jenna has joiined the 9am crew.
Go Jenna!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

james t TEXAS — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:57:13 GMT

I sure do admire that young man he has the guts and determination to do what ever he seeks in life. I wish I had his drive nothing will stop him. His mother and sister are the greatest things on earth. I truly believe they inspire him to be all that he can and will be a terrific leader.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Teren Stevens, Oklahoma City, ok — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:58:46 GMT

Patrick's optimism will carry him far. I'm hoping that his rehab includes the incredible Locomat, which has had remarkable success.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Jeanna Faulk, O'Fallon, IL — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:00:33 GMT

Thank you for this story. Patrick, you put a smile on my face & made me run directly toward my youngest child and give him a hug. God Bless you:)

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Shirley Beshel, St. Louis, MO — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:02:52 GMT

Awesome story. This young man will walk again. Where there's a will there's a way, and he certainly has the will!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Toni Claw — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:15:20 GMT

I'm very excited for you - to hear your story. It makes my Bell's Palsy paralysis a small trial in life. I am quitting my job so I can have daily physical therapy for my face - although it will be exactly 3 years as of March 30, 2009 that I came down with this illness but I am willing to try full pledge therapy. I have tried several therapies but the one I have not is the intense facial maneuvering. I hope for the best for you. I totally know what its like to want to have some normality. You will get there.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Maria de H, Raleigh, NC — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:25:54 GMT

Patrick, you are such an inspiration. I work with challenged students, and believe me, when they tell me "I can't", I will use you as an example to them to not give up on their goals and dreams.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Mary Kane, Minneapolis, MN — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:30:36 GMT

Fabulous story! I want to know what he is doing to get movement back. Hope you can follow up on this. Thanks.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Matthew Ford, Starkville, MS — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:50:42 GMT

What a remarkable story. It demonstrates how individuals with disabilities strive to achieve independence and success in life in spite of the obstacles they have to overcome. I am blind with bad ankles that require me to wear braces. This is due to my ankles not staying freight when I walk. Therefore,I understand some of the challenges the disabled face trying to cope physically and emotionally with their disabilities. I am a college student at Mississippi State University who is studying Rehabilitation Services. This story is one I will share with my class.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

thania harvey-pimentel Ft Lauderdale, Fl — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 15:00:43 GMT

what a inspiration for young adults. You will be in your graduation in your feet.You know why? because that what you want to do. Keep it up.Your mothers isa very lucky women,and lucky to has her"BEST OF LUCK.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

W, Ali,Laurel, MD — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 15:06:00 GMT

Keep strong Patrick! GOD Bless You

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

courtney schaubroeck,redmond,oregon — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 15:56:27 GMT

wow i am a 14 year old girl and i personaly think this is amazing and he is very brave i dont watch the news much but this boy caught my eye he is very cute and i think he is brave and talented..i would never think of doing the things he does!!!PAtrick you are a merical

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Lisa Swanston, Salinas, CA. — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:02:23 GMT

What an absolutely inspirational story!! This kid is amazing and the next time I'm having a bad day, I'm going to think about his courage and positive attitude. I smiled through the entire story, just looking at this kid makes you smile! He WILL walk across that stage at graduation....of course he will....he has accomplished every other goal he has set for himself, why not that one?! Thank you Jenna Wolfe, for the wonderfully, uplifting story and sharing this awesome boy with all of us. We should all be so lucky as to have a spirit like this kid. EPIC DUDE!!!!!!!!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Collette Burke — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:06:53 GMT

What a terrific and uplifing story. Patrick is truly an inspiration. Keep going Patrick, you will inspire so many with your determination and positive attitude. May God bless you always.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Rich Murray — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:09:47 GMT

I'm the track coach at Scripps Ranch High where Patrick goes to school. Patrick is such an encouragement and role model to our teachers, coaches and kids. I tell our athletes, "you think practice is tough?" you need to go see Patrick and check out his workouts".

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Eddy Mueller, Cape Coral. FL. — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:24:25 GMT

What a good time for a story like this one. A week ago tomorrow, My older brother was in an accident. The doctors say he has severed his spine. And will never walk again. He will be in the hospital for a long time. But if I can be ready with stories like this one to share with him. Hopefully he will want to go on!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Pamela Singer, Bainbridge Island, Washington — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:27:57 GMT

Patrick is amazing. How did he get like this? What influence molded this "can do" way of living? It was his mother. It must be the way she raised him that taught him to overcome obstacles. I'd like to spend time with her, absorbing her view of life, her view of the world. Her influence would help us all during these trying times....during any time.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Daniel, Denver CO — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:29:13 GMT

Patrick, Jennifer & Sam, you are all an inspiration! Way to go for it Patrick! Thank you Jenna for this story.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Pam Freeman Lucedale,MS — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:49:08 GMT

My seventeen year old son was recently injured and is now a quadripeligic. I am amazed at the things that this family has done. They are an inspiration to us all.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Steven, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 17:36:17 GMT

Godspeed Patrick!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Kathryn, Honolulu, HI — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 19:02:17 GMT

Patrick has an awesome spirit and amazingly successful. While on the waves, all the physical stuff falls away and the affirmation that you can do anything is confirmed. Many heartfelt thanks to organizations like Life Rolls On and AccesSurf Hawai'i that remember those with challenges and provide them with the fun and access to the powerful ocean that many take for granted.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Elaine, Scripps Ranch, San Diego CA — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 21:50:01 GMT

I have been blessed to have been Patrick's middle school science teacher, and he IS the real deal. What you see- a hard working, positive, sweet, well mannered, young man- IS who Patrick really is! One of the things they didn't mention- is that he is also an excellent student! He's very bright! Last year he even placed 3rd place at the San Diego Science Fair!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Travis, Wheels 2 Water — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 23:19:13 GMT

Patrick, you rock brother! We'll see you in the water next month!!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Alyse Rome, Amazing Kids!, Huntington Beach, CA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:08:40 GMT

Patrick, we are so proud of you!!! Patrick is also an Amazing Kids! Youth Ambassador, helping inspire other kids to launch their own amazing dreams. To read more about Amazing Patrick, check out his Amazing Kid! of the Month story on the Amazing Kids! website: http://www.amazing-kids.org/akom11-07.html

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Nathan — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 03:01:15 GMT

Patrick, a few family members called me and asked me if I knew you and I was proud to say yes. From one "Project Walker" to another, you will achieve your goal of walking across the stage and then more.I know it. Way to go! You're a celeb! Keep up the hard work and you will be what both you and I know we want to be. It is a pleasure to say that I know you!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Sharon Patterson, Lynchburg, Virginia — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 04:30:51 GMT

Way to go Patrick!! You are truly an inspiration and I pray that life turns out the way you want it to. Keep believing, all things are possible!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

sir petty — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 05:24:51 GMT

cant wait to see you walk at our graduation patrick!! scripps 2012!!!

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

jbs — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 05:49:09 GMT

What a great story! Inspiring. Jenna can surf too? Seems like she'll take on anything you send her way.

Quadriplegic teen gives Jenna Wolfe a lesson in surfing...and courage

Raul Pedraza — Fri, 01 May 2009 18:22:44 GMT

COWABUNGA Patrick! Keep moving forward and never ever ever give up.