Although LaShonne Williams-Fraley has struggled for 21 years to recover from a debilitating spinal cord injury, her bravery and courage to overcome her physical challenges have never ceased. As a happy mother and Team Member at NRH, LaShonne continues to do the things she loves by learning how to adapt to her new surroundings, and by never letting an obstacle prevent her from pursuing her wildest dreams.

On July 3, 1990, while LaShonne was watching TV, a stray bullet was shot through her home. The bullet pierced her neck, went through her spinal cord and left lung, and eventually exited her body just below her left arm. LaShonne was transported to Washington Hospital Center via helicopter, where she was placed on a rotating belt for one month. She soon discovered that the spinal cord below her neck had been severed, resulting in a paralysis of her legs. She then underwent several grueling surgeries and three months of intense rehabilitation.

But LaShonne never lost sight of what is important. Some might assume that a spinal cord injury such as LaShonne’s would negatively affect her role as a mother, but it has not. In fact, she describes the bond with her son Kennard as stronger than ever. LaShonne believes her injury has “made [her son] a better person because he realizes some people need help, especially the sick and disabled, and he really wants to help. It’s a good thing because it gives him exposure.”

Today, LaShonne is a vital member of the NRH Team. Her selfless attitude and passionate hunger for life is known by many, and NRH is tremendously grateful to have her. She advises, “If someone says you can’t, don’t let it sink into your head. If someone tells you can’t do something, try it anyways. If you succeed, then you proved others wrong. If not, it’s okay because you didn’t give up.” LaShonne continues to not only be a positive influence on others, but to her growing son as well, whom she hopes will carry on her legacy.

By Jay Song, NRH Marketing Intern