Local to embark on 250 mile journey on hand cycle

"Had prisoners out on the interstate picking up trash and pulled into median at state line, man went into median at 65 miles per hour and t-boned me in my door," said Scott Wells, Independence Regained.

            13 years ago, Scott Wells' became paralyzed.    He didn't let it define him or his attitude - attacking his rehabilitation like he does life - with everything he's got.

"Striving to do best I could.  To get to enjoying life again and always looking to pay it forward and helping other people," said Wells.

            His dream: Being independent, and helping others do the same.

"Hoping to provide awareness of need for neurology rehabilitation research hospital in Shreveport-Bossier area," said Wells.

            To do that, he's going on a 250 mile journey to Baton Rouge with a group of his strongest supporters.  Not in a car, but a hand-cycle.

            Scott has been training for his journey for six months.  That's six days a week, three of them at LSU Health's Allied Professionals Facility with his therapist, Amanda.

"I think his mission is incredible.  He's very, very motivated to help others with similar injuries as his," said Amanda Mahoney, Physical Therapist with LSU.

            His determination to achieve his goals has inspired her, too.

"I'm actually going on the ride three of the days," said Mahoney.

            Wells hopes that his seven day ride to the capitol sends a message that a facility specializing in brain and spinal cord injuries is vital to ensuring other patients end-up like him.

"Patient can be able to go right down hall and see an Independent Living Specialist, and learn everything they need to learn to be as independent as they can be," said Wells.

            Scott Wells, and his group of supporters, will begin the first 40-mile leg of their journey Saturday morning. Send-off for the group will be at Parkway High School between 8 and 11 A.M.