Positive Changes

The mission of Positive Changes is to make a positive impact on individuals and families faced with the lifetime challenges of disability by providing services enabling them to remain in their home and an active part of their community. A volunteer based organization, Positive Changes strives to break the barriers of disability by helping to provid... e home modifications, personal care attendants and education in other services available to the client. On December 12, 1987 Rick Davidson, a 21-year-old with an adventurous spirit took what would be his last ride on a motorcycle alone that would change his life forever. Rick was riding his 1987 Suzuki GSXR 1100 around the block when he lost control at about 30 mph stated in the Olathe police report. Then Rick and his motorcycle slid into the front of a parked pickup, at the point of impact, Ricks head hit the trucks bumper which caused the third vertebrae in his neck to explode. At that moment, Rick became a quadriplegic, relying on a ventilator for every breath. Paramedics transported Rick to Olathe hospital, and then his parents were notified of the horrific accident that just had happened to their only son. Rick was transported by life flight to KU Medical Center where the doctors informed his parents that their son only had a 5% chance to live and they would be lucky if I survived past a year on the ventilator. During his time at KU Med Rick's parents contacted Craig hospital in Denver Colorado. The doctors and nurses came to KU Med to assess Rick and see if he would be a candidate for their rehab services. Due to Rick's positive outlook on life and his overall condition he was accepted to start his rehabilitation at Craig hospital February 14, 1988 to June 2 of 1988. Rick attributes his success to his "never say die attitude". Along with his goals and fund raisers that afford him additional care and equipment not covered by insurance. In addition to countless volunteer hours, Rick gives back in many ways. In 2005, Rick traveled coast to coast on a specially ...Read More