Doug lives in the small town of Bridgewater, VA, after having grew up in the even more rural Avilton, MD. On December 20, 1997, at just 13 years old, a freak hunting accident changed his life forever, leaving him a T11/T12 complete paraplegic.

It wasn’t easy — but he didn’t face it blindly. Growing up with a quadriplegic uncle shaped his perspective early, helping him understand that life in a wheelchair didn’t mean life was over. It meant it would look different — and require grit.

Over the next 28+ years, Doug built a full life. Not without setbacks. He and his wife endured a difficult fertility journey that included a failed IVF cycle and miscarriage before ultimately being blessed with two incredible children. That season strengthened his faith, resilience, and appreciation for what truly matters.

Today, Doug balances a full-time career, fatherhood, volunteer leadership, and disability advocacy. After nearly three decades navigating life as a paraplegic, he’s committed to growing his platform to give back — especially to those newly injured — helping them avoid common pitfalls, build independence, and realize what’s still possible.

Whether through sharing hard-earned lessons, small giveaways, or one day providing adaptive equipment to others, his mission is simple: lighten the load for the next person coming behind him.

As a proud ambassador for Spinergy for over 20 years, Doug trusts their lightweight, durable wheels to keep him moving — traveling, competing in sports, chasing his kids, and living life without limits. Paired with the TC Max Handrim, it’s a setup he relies on daily.