On May 26, 1999, Aaron was practicing on a local motocross track in
Simi Valley, CA in preparation for the AMA National Motocross Series.
On the approach to the largest jump on the track, Aaron’s bike
mal-functioned, causing him to lose valuable speed at the most crucial
part of the launch. As a result, Aaron was flung over the front of the
motorcycle while still airborn. Aaron impacted the ground headfirst,
breaking cervical vertebrae 4, 6, and completely shattering the 5th
cervical vertebra. … A team of neurosurgeons, headed by Dr. John Lee,
fused the broken vertebrae with a titanium plate and 5 screws. Dr.
Lee’s prognosis was that Aaron would have a “one in a million” chance
of ever regaining any type of function. … Physical therapist, Roger
Rich said, “I found a skinny, 20 year old, lying supine in bed, in a
rigid neck brace who could not move one muscle below his shoulders,
save for a flicker in his left big toe and who could not move himself
one millimeter in any direction. I took what seemed like so little at
first glance as hopeful because the flicker in his toe was accompanied
by scattered sensation throughout his body below his injury level. Not
many others, however, saw much to give them hope, including his
doctor”. … One year later. … Although still highly impaired
and confined to an electric wheelchair, on the first year post injury
anniversary, the insurance company deemed Aaron rehabilitated,
releasing him from any further therapy. However, Aaron knew that his
body was just beginning to respond. Incredibly dark days ensued. Aaron
needed proper guidance and specialized therapy to meet the functional
goals he knew were possible. But where and how was this to be
accomplished. … Enter Taylor-Kevin Isaacs. Taylor studied
Aaron’s medical report, x-rays, and had Aaron complete a “client
attitude profile”. He then designed a comprehensive program,
specifically crafted to Aaron’s precise condition and goals.  A
complete nutritional program was also established based on Aaron’s
specific needs.  The program was based on 4 days per week for 2
hour sessions.  Each muscle group was trained twice a week using a
split routine.  During this period Taylor provided the manual
resistance and motion. … After many months Taylor no longer provided
the manual assistance, Aaron’s muscles were strong enough for him to
hold a 1 pound dumbbell.  And the progress continues to this day,
… . (06/03/05)
more…