The Reason for This Effort

Since the age of ten, I've dealt with the after-effects of polio, thanks to a rare and adverse reaction to a vaccine I received in my childhood. The result is atrophied muscles on the entire right side of my body. I walk with a noticeable limp, and am unable to use my right leg for much more than a stilt supporting my body.

Though this condition has handicapped my body, it has strengthened my resolve and spurred my determination. With the only other option surrender, I have developed a stubborn resiliency which will not let me quit pursuits in which I believe, even if the going gets tough. I've been able to leverage this to complete graduate school, and launch successful businesses, in addition to fathering two children with a wonderful and supportive wife.

Living this way has also taught me that my attitude is a stronger influence in my day-to-day living than my physical condition. Yes, fearing an expensive pair of pants going up in smoke, I might not wear my best suit on days when ice glazes the sidewalk, but I will not let the fact that getting around is difficult prevent me from getting wherever it is I want to go. And that takes me to hunting.

If you've lived with a less than ideal physical condition, you've certainly adapted to life by altering the way that you do things. You might leave for the game a little early, so you can get a closer parking space, or you might get your groceries up the stairs by lifting them three steps at a time. Whatever the situation, you can either surrender or FIGURE OUT A WAY TO GET IT DONE.

Hunting is no different. You just have to figure out a way to get it done. As both a hunter and a person with a disability, the issue is close to my heart. Yes, I would like to plow through the thickets and experience the thrill of a pheasant flushing from under my feet, but instead of lamenting the fact that this isn't really practical, I'll enjoy standing at the end of the field, keeping the birds from flushing early and maybe getting a passing shot.

With this attitude, I've been able to conquer my less than ideal physical status to take trophy bear, deer, antelope and turkeys, in addition to several types of game birds and varmints.

Please help me build this site, by sharing your stories and experiences, and recommending products and services that might help others enjoy the sport of hunting.