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Shattered Spine, Unbreakable Spirit

Refusing to accept his new reality as someone whose dreams were also shattered, Grant dug deep, determined to get back into the cockpit and earn his wings. Shawna Korgan
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Grant Korgan's lifelong dream of becoming a pilot was seemingly shattered in 2010 when a snowmobiling accident caused a severed spine and paralysis.
  • Years later, with unwavering support from his wife and friends, he reignited his pursuit of flying, facing the immense challenge of obtaining an FAA first-class medical certificate despite his physical limitations.
  • He ingeniously overcame his paralysis by designing a custom, FAA-compliant hand-brake control system for aircraft, enabling him to fly without leg movement.
  • Through immense perseverance, dedicated training, and a supportive network, Korgan achieved his lifelong dream in June 2019, becoming a fully licensed pilot and proving that profound challenges can be overcome.
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As human beings, we’re constantly ­evaluating our paths—our dreams, our fears and the simple truth that fulfillment always lies just beyond the veil of what we perceive our limitations to be.

Grant Korgan

Grant Korgan is an adventurer and pilot who rebuilt his life after a spinal cord injury. His remarkable expedition to the South Pole was documented in the award-winning film, The Push, and further shared in his memoir, Two Feet Back. He uses aviation as a platform to help others through the Moment Foundation (www.momentfoundation.org or follow @MomentFoundation).

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