The journey of a 22 year old man from being told he would never walk or use his hands again to becoming a participant in science 35 years later and helping people with spinal cord injuries. Never giving up! Scott is an incomplete quadriplegic with fine motor skill limitations, following a spinal cord injury (C4 through C6) from a car accident in 1985, caused by a seatbelt failure. Today, Scott participates in groundbreaking spinal cord injury research at the University of Chicago, where he can control a robotic arm and hand with sensory feedback. The goal of this study is to restore independence to individuals with spinal cord injuries. His journey is one of hope, resilience, and unwavering determination. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at