Episode 7

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Published on:

23rd Sep 2024

Paralysis, Perseverance, and Possibility: How Adam Gorlitsky Achieved the Impossible | EP7

Adam Gorlitsky is a pioneer in the world of adaptive athletics and the founder of I GOT LEGS, a non-profit organization dedicated to ReEnabling individuals with spinal cord injuries. On December 30, 2005, Adam was involved in a catastrophic car accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. Doctors believed he would never walk again. However, a decade later, Adam defied the odds and became the first paralyzed man to walk the Cooper River Bridge Run using a ReWalk robotic exoskeleton.

Since his groundbreaking achievement in 2016, Adam has participated in over 50 road races, including breaking a Guinness World Record for exoskeleton marathon walking. His journey from paralysis to becoming a beacon of hope for others with spinal cord injuries is a testament to human resilience and the power of innovative technology.

Show Notes

  • Adam's life-changing accident and initial prognosis
  • Introduction to the ReWalk robotic exoskeleton in 2015
  • The birth of I GOT LEGS and its evolution from a personal fundraising effort to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
  • Adam's first major achievement: completing the 2016 Cooper River Bridge Run
  • The mission of I GOT LEGS and its impact on the spinal cord injury community
  • Adam's remarkable athletic achievements, including his Guinness World Record
  • The concept of being "ReEnabled" and how it differs from traditional notions of disability and ability
  • The future of adaptive technology and its potential to transform lives

Adam's Stats

  • Date of car accident: December 30, 2005
  • Type of injury: Spinal Cord Injury, complete T-9
  • Date of ReEnablement: December 30, 2015
  • Assistive device: ReWalk Robotic Exoskeleton
  • Total steps taken: 2 million and counting
  • Total races walked: 51
  • Career highlights:
  • 2016 Cooper River Bridge Run
  • 2018 Portlandathon
  • 2020 Charleston Marathon
  • Guinness World Record Holder for Fastest Marathon Distance in a Robotic Walking Device
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Good Skill
"Good Skill" is a captivating weekly podcast hosted by Eric Bland, an award-winning attorney, speaker, author, and media personality known for his involvement in high-profile cases like the Murdaugh saga. Through engaging conversations with thought leaders, creatives, influencers, and policymakers, Eric delves into the idea that success isn't merely about luck but is instead achieved through honed skills and strategic efforts.
Each episode of "Good Skill" offers listeners an insightful journey into the minds of individuals who are reshaping their respective industries. By highlighting their stories and emphasizing the importance of skill development, Eric underscores the transformative power of dedication, perseverance, and expertise in reaching the pinnacle of success.
Drawing upon his own experiences and those of his esteemed guests, Eric provides listeners with valuable insights and actionable advice for navigating their own paths to success. With a roster of guests ranging from innovative entrepreneurs to visionary policymakers, "Good Skill" serves as a beacon of inspiration and empowerment for listeners seeking to make their mark in the world.

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Eric Bland

Award-winning Attorney | Speaker | Media Personality | Author
Recognized by Court TV, Dateline, The Today Show, Good Morning America, and Netflix Eric Bland is an award winning attorney, media personality, speaker, and host of the globally recognized “Cup of Justice” podcast. Eric became a prominent figure in the legal community in a meteoric rise to fame while representing victims in the Murdaugh saga which captured international attention.