Christine Kent, Activist/Survivor -

Christine Kent is a passionate advocate who has partnered with Access Advocates to make the world more accessible, one building at a time. Her story is one of survival and triumph after a brutal attack by an acquaintance left her paralyzed. Christine has made it her life’s purpose to inspire others and make a difference. The following is her story, in her own words.

I Survived by the Grace of God

~ by Christine Kent

On August 4^th, 2007, I was the victim of a horrible crime that has left me changed forever. I was attacked by a stalker at my home in Ft. Lauderdale by a man that I had considered to be just an acquaintance. He had plotted a horrible attack against me and pulled a gun to the back of my head. I spoke to him about God and told him that he needed to let me go. When I fled for my life he open fired and one of the bullets obliterated the T-12 section of my spine and paralyzed me. I landed in the gravel beside my driveway conscious as he ran over me with his SUV, and turned the tire while on top of my abdomen. My neighbor’s phoned the police when they heard the shots fired, but they were too afraid to come to my aid. I was shocked to find that my attacker came back within minutes, grabbed me by the ankles, dragged me across the driveway to hide me behind the hedges, and left me there to die. I prayed to be saved and by the grace of God I survived for which I am so grateful.

Fortunately this dangerous man was apprehended the very next day. He pled guilty to Attempted Rape and Attempted Murder First Degree on Oct.2, 2009 and was sentenced to Life without the possibility of parole.

Now I have some closure and peace of mind to know that he’ll never get out, to hurt me or anyone else again.

The Doctors confirmed that the injuries to my spine are so severe that I’ll never walk again. Having spent over six months in hospitals and rehabilitation facilities, I am so grateful to be back in my own home. Everyday is very challenging, but sheer will, determination, and support helps to keep me pushing forward.

The Spinal Cord Injury Support Group, at HealthSouth in Sunrise, has been great by offering encouragement, helping me with adjusting, problem solving and goal setting. I try to remain positive despite my pain and disability, believing that everyday is a gift and life is a blessing. Since attending these groups I’ve been able to be helpful and encouraging to others as well. I’m becoming more involved with various activities and sports geared for the disabled. Handcycling is now my most favorite sport of all and I’ve just completed my tenth full 26.2 mile marathon! I feel such a sense of accomplishment and my family and friends are all so proud of me.

I want to make the most of my life, be an inspiration to others, and make a difference. By sharing my story, experience, and perspective, I believe that I may help others along the way. I hope to have a positive impact by promoting awareness of disability and giving motivational speeches. One of the groups I speak to is the youth at risk in the “Community Diversion Program” through the Broward Sherriff’s Office. My goal is to help them understand the importance of making the most of their lives, helping others along their way, and contributing something good to society. I was also a guest speaker at the annual “Women in Distress” meeting and I strive to offer encouragement to other victims. I received an “Advocate of Distinction Award” through the Center for Independent Living of Broward on the 20^th Anniversary of the ADA, and just recently completed there “Leadership Program” to make a difference for future generations of those living with disabilities.

Living with paralysis is difficult, but I focus on what is good in my life and all that I’m grateful for, and it lifts my spirits. The support from my Community makes me grateful and continues to help keep my faith strong.

I’ve been very fortunate to have received assistance from different sources to make my home more accessible which has really made it easier on me. The more grateful I’ve been the more blessings have come my way. I’m still enjoying maintaining my Gardens, which I love to do, I just need a little more help to reach some of them.

I’m hopeful that I may continue to help others, and by doing so it helps me to grow as well. I believe that the good Lord has kept me here for a purpose, and I’ve come to realize that my purpose is to encourage and inspire others. My tragedy has touched other people’s lives in such a profound way that they do not sweat the small stuff so much when they think of me and all I’ve overcome. We all have different challenges to deal with in life, but it is how we deal with our circumstance that defines who we are. I choose to focus on the good in my life!