The Heart of Gold, A Mindset of Steel, and Driven by Purpose: The Chris Clark Story

Chris Clark meets with lawmakers in the state of California to advocate for more conducive accessibility opportunities in the classroom for individuals that have needs

Chris Clark is a bright individual and a positive addition to The Perfect Step Community.

Recently, Clark took his passion for advocacy to Sacramento, where he spoke at the state Capitol about disabilities. He focused on improving conditions for students with disabilities in schools, including elementary, junior high, and high school. He wanted to send a message and raise awareness for those who may not understand the struggles that people with disabilities face every day.

This kind of leadership is nothing new for Clark. His life has been about rising above challenges since the moment he was born. Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at birth, he lost oxygen to his brain after his umbilical cord became wrapped around his neck. Doctors had to perform an emergency C-section to save his life. Since then, Clark has spent his life defying expectations and pushing forward.

At The Perfect Step, an activity-based training facility, Clark brings an athletic mindset to every session. He is known for his consistent focus and strong work ethic. Over time, he has seen major improvement in his core strength and balance, which are essential for his overall movement and independence.

“I take life day by day, and I try to live my life to the fullest and never take it for granted,” Clark said. “I’m trying to soak in every moment that I have, and I have to remind myself that I am not only doing this for myself but I’m doing it for people in the future as well.”

Chris committed to going to the University of La Verne, where he will major and a lifelong commitment to change making and community impact!

Clark’s leadership also shows in his love for sports. He served as the student manager for the Claremont High School football team, where he helped motivate athletes to push themselves and build character. He formed strong friendships during that time and gained valuable insight into the game, something he plans to continue developing in college.

This fall, Clark will attend the University of La Verne, where he will study journalism. He hopes to stay involved in the world of sports. He was drawn to the university’s small community feel, and he was inspired by the stories of Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Logan Frye, who also attended La Verne.

At The Perfect Step, Clark has become known for more than just his physical progress. His specialists, Nathan Lozano, Logan Frye, and Ashton Wray, each shared how much of an impact Clark has made.

Lozano said Clark’s support system plays a big role in his motivation and success. “I think he has an incredible support system around him, and it has helped him always feel included,” Lozano said. “I feel like he has a passion for wanting to help everyone who is living with a disability.”

He also spoke about the influence of Hal Hargrave, the founder of The Perfect Step, and how Clark looks up to him. “They are two individuals who are not afraid to use their voice when it comes to their disability,” Lozano said. “They both use their stories to inspire others and always show up for the people around them.”

Lozano believes one of the biggest lessons he has learned from Clark is how powerful it is to be truly heard. “You always have a voice, and there’s always somebody out there that’s going to be listening,” he said. “They aren’t just looking at you and moving on. They are really listening and willing to hear what you have to say.”

Clark has also helped Lozano gain a new perspective on life. “He helps me, especially when I am having a bad day,” Lozano said. “He’s helped me realize not to take the little things I may complain about for granted. From an exercise standpoint, he’s shown me that there are so many ways to move the body. Just because someone is in a chair doesn’t mean they can’t challenge themselves and grow stronger.”

Every Wednesday, Clark trains with Lozano, and their time together has built a strong bond that continues to grow.

Chris looking dapper and getting ready to leave the house to head with his date to senior prom

Frye, who trains with Clark every Monday, shared a similar experience. “The kid is extremely driven and extremely focused,” Frye said. He remembered how open Clark was from the start, always ready to try new things. That mindset has led to steady progress, both physically and mentally.

“We’re constantly working on a lot of things with his body,” Frye said. “We’re always trying to help him become more independent and improve his quality of life.”

After a year and a half of working together, Frye believes they are only at the beginning of something special.

Wray, who has known Clark since he was ten years old, has watched him grow over the years. She has seen his progress and transformation up close. “From the very beginning, he has radiated a zest for life and an infectious joy that truly lifts everyone around him,” Wray said. “But what stands out the most is his genuine care for others. He not only brings light into a room, but he also takes the time to truly connect with people. He always has the eagerness to learn more about the people he meets.”

She also spoke about his approach to everything he takes on. “Chris’s approach to therapy, school, and life comes with unwavering effort,” Wray said. “He gives 100 percent to every challenge he faces.”

Watching Clark grow into the person he is today has been something Wray deeply cherishes. “It has been an absolute pleasure to watch him grow through life, transforming from a young little boy into a thoughtful, driven, and compassionate man.”

For Wray, the most inspiring part of Clark’s story is how he never lets his disability define what he is capable of doing. Instead, he reminds people that possibility has no limits.

Clark’s journey is just beginning, and a new leader in the world is forming before our very eyes. Through his passion and driven mindset, nothing will stand in the way of Clark’s mission.

By: Zachary Grech - Student, University of La Verne, Class of 2025

Journalist Intern at The Perfect Step

Research in Motion: Cody Norman’s Study of Activity-Based Therapy

STEP Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist, Cody Norman, instructs client, Arthur Martinot, through a balance and core strengthening workout routine

Cody Norman joined The Perfect Step as a Paralysis Recovery Assistant in 2021. Norman’s extensive educational background includes a completed Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology from the University of La Verne and a Master's degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Leadership and Management, also completed at the University of La Verne.

Through his hard work and dedication to his clients and The Perfect Step organization, Norman eventually got promoted to a Level II STEP Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist. Norman has shown the capability to help his clients reach their goals. Through this success, he took it upon himself to conduct in-depth research on the activity-based therapy method.

Norman's work with people who have spinal cord injuries and his work at an activity-based therapy center inspired him to pursue the research portion of activity-based therapy. He also felt there was untapped potential for research at The Perfect Step.

“It’s super hard in research to get a population of individuals with a neurological injury, such as spinal cord injury, stroke, or cerebral palsy, in a large group setting, and see the daily progress,” Norman said.

The fact that he has access to this population of people who deal with these injuries daily gave him even more motivation to conduct research and explore the true potential that activity-based therapy can have on these clients.

Specialist, Cody Norman, provides assistance to client, Adam Fritz, in an upper body strength training sequence.

Through his research findings, the first conclusion he made was that exercise is beneficial for everyone, but it is especially crucial for people living a sedentary lifestyle.

“We try to get that individual or all of our clientele out of the wheelchair as much as possible, and as close to that anatomical position as possible, and get them to exercise,” Norman said.

Norman also pointed out that exercise is the key piece to activity-based therapy. It’s the formula for success when it comes to clients reaching their independent goals and the evaluation goals they set up with their specialists. Without daily exercise, clients would feel less motivated and, ultimately, lose hope for a better future.

One of the most compelling research findings Norman discovered was through working with post-injury clients and noticing how common the narrative was that after two years post-injury, recovery tends to plateau.

Norman thought otherwise when he heard this. He took it upon himself to implement the activity-based therapy method used daily at The Perfect Step with his regular clients. Through this creative risk, compelling results followed.

“We’ve found that clients who have been injured 14, 15 years ago are still seeing some gains with their recovery, and the method for this success is just through facilitated exercise,” Norman said.

The main outlier to these results was how the clients responded to activity-based therapy, which ultimately comes back to the basic function of exercise and how it strengthens the human body over time, allowing progress to continue.

Once Norman began to see this consistent pattern, he started asking for client feedback, which helped guide the direction of his research and the specific studies he wanted to incorporate into the activity-based therapy method.

“We rely heavily on their feedback to know what types of things we do in those short sessions that are going to help them, or that are going to be beneficial for them in the long run,” Norman said.

Receiving this client feedback allows Norman and other specialists to be more meticulous and specific when implementing certain exercises that will get the most out of each client’s body function. This leads to a beneficial training package, in other words, a personalized daily workout routine. It also allows clients to track their progress outside of sessions and keeps them accountable for doing their workouts at home when they are not at The Perfect Step facility.

This training package is also designed with an individualized approach because each client responds differently to activity-based therapy.

“Everybody’s very individualistic, so we have to train in an individualistic manner to give them the best possible training that they can ultimately receive,” Norman said.

This personalized approach also opens the door for different research methods. Norman has seen that there are many tools and strategies that can help various clients. He emphasizes that there isn’t one specific method that solves every client’s problem.

Specialist, Cody Norman, does balance and stability work with client, Jeffrey Ma.

Seeing the consistent progress in his clients has made Norman even more grateful to be part of The Perfect Step, an organization that not only prioritizes client care but also values the importance of research. He knows that having the support to explore and expand activity-based therapy methods is what truly sets the facility apart.

“Luckily, I’m in a good spot that prioritizes research compared to other activity-based therapy centers that simply don’t research at all,” Norman said.

He is also grateful to The Perfect Step for setting boundaries on how many hours specialists can train clients. This helps prevent burnout and allows staff to stay connected to other parts of their lives. Norman emphasizes that this type of training is very demanding on the body and can wear down not only clients, but specialists as well, very quickly.

Norman knows the work is not easy for the clients or the specialists, but he believes it is worth it. Whether it is through small progress over time or a breakthrough after years of effort, he has seen how activity-based therapy can change lives. Supported by a facility that values research and puts people first, Norman is committed to continuing the work that brought him here in the first place. He wants to help others move forward, one step at a time.

By: Zachary Grech - Student, University of La Verne, Class of 2025

Journalist Intern at The Perfect Step

The Heart Behind The Healing: Kristen Douglas’s Approach to Activity-Based Therapy

STEP Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Kristen Douglas during a training session working on a client, José Perales, at The Perfect Step.

Kristen Douglas joined The Perfect Step in 2019 and is a Level II Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from the University of La Verne, with an emphasis in Health and Human Performance and a Minor in Psychology. She also earned her Master’s in Exercise Science from California Baptist University.

Growing up, Douglas always knew she wanted to help people. That passion came from watching her father, a retired fireman paramedic, and how he never hesitated to help others in everyday life.

“He is always just that person to pull over with somebody on the side of the road and change a flat tire, whatever it is,” Douglas said. “So I always loved how he was so passionate about doing what you love, and being passionate about it.”

Through that inspiration, she fell in love with the idea of physical therapy and helping athletes. As a former volleyball player, she understands what it’s like to live the athletic lifestyle and has carried that same energy into her work. Staying in the athletic community helped her build a sense of connection and community at The Perfect Step, where she now helps clients reach their goals through activity-based therapy.

The biggest thing that led Douglas to The Perfect Step was the ability to help people through a hands-on experience—and to physically see the progress her clients make over time.

“I love that I can directly see clients getting better,” she said. “I can be that person who comes up with the idea, who does the work with you, and sees us both benefit from it.”

She also highlights how the environment at The Perfect Step feels like home. The energy throughout the building is contagious, and the relationships she’s built with her clients and fellow Specialists have made her experience even more meaningful.

“The atmosphere is always upbeat and fun,” Douglas said. “I love how everyone involved with The Perfect Step is all working together to reach the same goal, with like-minded people who also have the same ‘why.”

For Douglas, working in this field means more than just training—it means building communication, trust, and confidence with each of her clients in every session.

“For me, I love building that confidence with my clients, and I love proving to them that they are capable of anything that they put their mind to,” she said. “Seeing the surprises on their faces and their reactions helps remind them what they are capable of.”

Kristen Douglas, Specialist, working with client, Emma Vargas, during a session.

She explained that many clients in the TPS program are fully invested in the process and that trust makes all the difference.

“These clients that are bought in have pushed me to become a better trainer because it makes me willing to try more, and I know that we can always figure it out together,” Douglas said. “The process doesn’t always have to be perfect the first time, but trusting one another will always allow us to work toward the solution.”

That trust leads to special bonds with her clients. While some connect with her emotionally through shared experiences or energy, others need her as a strong physical and mental support system.

One client that stood out to Douglas was a man diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis. She has been working with him since his first evaluation at The Perfect Step. From the start, they worked closely together to pinpoint goals and track his progress. Early in training, Douglas would monitor how his body reacted to touch through leg spasms. Over time, that trust and effort turned into real results.

Now, that client is driving and enrolled in school—huge milestones that have brought more confidence and independence to his life.

“Just seeing so much confidence with him… for me, it has become more about that physical aspect of how can we continually get the body stronger,” Douglas said.

Activity-based therapy, which focuses on the mind, body, and soul, is something Douglas uses every day with her clients—and even in her own development as a specialist. It’s more than a method—it’s a long-term process that she believes can help anyone achieve their personal goals.

To those in the middle of their recovery, Douglas offers a reminder to trust the journey fully. She emphasizes that while the process may include ups, downs, and plateaus, each small step forward is worth celebrating.

“We need to remember all the little steps it takes to get there,” Douglas said. “Let’s also be sure to stop and celebrate those victories and little milestones that we hit along the way.”

By: Zachary Grech - Student, University of La Verne, Class of 2025

Journalist Intern at The Perfect Step

Logan Frye’s take on the importance of activity-based therapy

STEP Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Logan Frye during a training session working on a client, Kimberly Romero, at The Perfect Step.

Logan Frye has been a STEP Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist since 2022 for The Perfect Step Organization. Before joining The Perfect Step, Logan studied at the University of La Verne, earning a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a concentration in health and human performance and a minor in business management. He took it upon himself to gain valuable experience in various fields, including group training, administrative tasks, security, and chiropractic knowledge through a prior internship. This diverse background shaped his approach to physical therapy, where he focuses on individualized training to ensure clients achieve the best possible outcomes—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well.

One of Logan’s biggest inspirations is Erin Tharp, a non-verbal client who was diagnosed with viral encephalitis at the age of 12. Now 40, Thrap faces significant challenges, including occasional seizures, yet she approaches life with a consistently positive attitude. No matter what obstacles come her way, she has never canceled a session. Her determination and resilience serve as a powerful reminder to Logan and everyone at The Perfect Step that mindset plays a crucial role in the recovery process.

Frye emphasizes that activity-based therapy is completely different from traditional physical therapy because it doesn’t just focus on the body—it prioritizes the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of the client. Every time a client comes in for a session, all three aspects must be in a place where they can fully engage in training. Not every client feels 100% in tune with their body at all times, and complications can arise. This is where Frye’s expertise in managing secondary complications comes into play. He understands that no two clients are the same, and his ability to adapt sessions based on how a client is feeling on a given day is key to their progress.

One belief that Frye and many specialists at The Perfect Step share is that exercise should be viewed as medicine—a natural vitamin for the body. The more a person moves, the more their body and mind benefit. For clients at The Perfect Step, simply showing up to a session, pushing their bodies, and taking advantage of this "natural vitamin" can make all the difference in their recovery journey. But exercise alone isn’t enough—rewiring the nervous system is where real progress happens. As a STEP Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist, Frye acts as an extension of that process.

Specialist Logan Frye instructing his client Kennin Ramirez on appropriate seated row posture.

During a client’s first evaluation, he gathers their medical history, past therapy records, and personal background to develop a fully customized program. He starts by assessing their current muscle strength through The Perfect Step’s functional movement assessment, but just as importantly, he evaluates quality of life. Clients are asked how they feel about their current living conditions, what areas they want to improve, and what goals they have beyond just physical recovery. This part of the evaluation is crucial because it allows Specialists like Frye to truly understand the person behind the injury. By building this connection, he can tailor sessions not just to improve physical function but to enhance overall well-being.

From there, Frye sets clear goals using the SMART goal-setting method. Goals must be Specific, outlining exactly what the client wants to achieve. They must be Measurable so that progress can be tracked over time. They must be Attainable, ensuring they are realistic and within reach. They must be relevant and align with the client’s overall journey. Finally, they must be Timely, giving clients a timeline to strive toward. Whether it’s a short-term goal, like increasing strength in a certain muscle group, or a long-term goal, like improving mobility, these SMART goals provide a structured path forward and keep clients motivated.

But perhaps one of the most powerful aspects of The Perfect Step is its sense of community. This isn’t just a rehabilitation center—it’s a place where people support each other. Clients who have been on their recovery journey for years play an active role in welcoming newcomers. Logan has seen firsthand how seasoned clients and ambassadors help those who are just starting, creating an environment where no one feels alone in their journey.

“A lot of our ambassadors do a great job, along with other clients too, in making new clients feel welcomed into the building,” Frye said.

For those just beginning their journey with The Perfect Step, Frye has one major piece of advice: come in with an open mind and be willing to step out of your comfort zone. He understands that starting any kind of recovery program can feel overwhelming, but he assures every new client that the entire team has their best interest at heart. Specialists like him spend countless hours researching and refining techniques to provide the best possible care. From the moment a client walks through the doors, The Perfect Step is committed to helping them achieve the goals they set for themselves—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

In the end, Logan Frye’s role as a STEP Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist isn’t just about helping clients regain movement—it’s about guiding them toward a better quality of life. Through personalized training, a deep understanding of neurological recovery, and a strong sense of community, Frye and The Perfect Step are proving every day that activity-based therapy is more than just exercise—it’s a way to redefine what’s possible.

By: Zachary Grech - Student University of La Verne Class of 2025

Overcoming Challenges in Physical Therapy: Nathan Lozano’s Take on Empowerment and Recovery

STEP Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Nathan Lozano during a training session working on a client at The Perfect Step Organization.

Diving deep into the challenges of physical therapy is one thing that STEP Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Nathan Lozano deals with his clients daily. Lozano has worked at The Perfect Step organization since 2017 when he started as a Step Certified Paralysis Recovery Assistant. Lozano graduated from Azusa Pacific University with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Exercise and also has a Master of Science in Kinesiology from A.T. Still University.

Now having more certifications under his belt, Lozano has been promoted to a Level Three-Step-Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist. Lozano focuses on incorporating therapeutic exercises for any individual who is dealing with any kind of neurological injury or diagnosis. These exercises mainly pertain to clients who have suffered a spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, or stroke. It also pertains to people living with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's, ALS, and PLS.

Lozano's approach to recovery is grounded in one core principle: “I show my clients that I’m human too,” he explains. This mantra drives everything he does. It’s not just about the exercises or treatment plans- it’s about building a personal connection. By being open and vulnerable with his clients, Lonzano creates a safe, understanding environment. When clients know they’re supported by someone who genuinely has their best interest at heart, they’re more likely to push their limits. It’s this deep personal connection that Lozano believes can make all the difference in their recovery.

A prime example of this connection is Lozano’s relationship with one of his most dedicated clients, Christopher Clark. Their relationship has inspired Lozano to advocate for disability rights and push for greater awareness around the challenges people with disabilities face.

“For me, I think a lot of my inspiration with disability rights and the advocacy side of things stems from his passion with disability advocacy,” Nathan Lozano said.

Lozano also admires the life approach Clark takes with living his life with his disability and more importantly not allowing his disability to limit him from doing things that he is truly passionate about. One example of Clark’s life approach happened in the weight room where he managed the Claremont High School Football team allowed him to bench press, and Clark was up for the challenge and he successfully passed with flying colors. This tough mindset has guided Christopher Clark to early success in life.

Clark’s Story is a testament to the mindset that Lozano brings to every aspect of his work, including his approach to physical therapy. At The Perfect Step, Lozano uses the core methodology known as the S.T.E.P method, which is designed not only to address physical recovery but also to empower them mentally. The core of this method is built around the understanding that every client has a unique journey just like Clark’s own unique path to recovery.

The S.T.E.P methodology consists of three main components, each aimed at stimulating and strengthening the nervous system.

The first step of patterned neural activity recruitment involves stimulating the spinal cord and brain through repetitive movement therapy, helping the brain reorganize itself and form new neural pathways. This process encourages the brain to relearn forgotten movements, helping to repair itself neurologically and increasing nervous system activity.

The second step in the S.T.E.P methodology is exercised-base therapy which ultimately is an authentic take that the perfect step does with physical therapy. Excerised based therapy is a physical approach, which requires clients to be pushed to their limitations. The Perfect Step encourages clients “to get out of the chair” and engage in exercise to regain independence. For clients who are in wheelchairs, exercise helps these clients correct the negative effects of prolonged sitting. Promoting anatomical extension, and reducing pain, tone, and spasms are good exercises for these types of clients because they help improve their range of motion. These high-intensity exercises increase muscle mass and bone density, and they also enhance function and coordination. The Perfect Step ultimately believes this is the most effective path to recovery by offering a lot of physical benefits that contribute to a better lifestyle.

Lozano showcases his devotion and craft to physical therapy as he helps his clients work full range motion on their lower body extremities.

Coming full circle for the S.T.E.P methodology, load bearing focuses on weight-bearing exercise into recovery to fight against clients in wheelchairs, and clients who spent limited in a vertical position who have a higher chance of declining in bone density. This approach helps maintain and increase bone density which then reduces the risks of bone diseases like osteoporosis and osteopenia. Additionally, it promotes joint stability which leads to muscle activation to maintain proper joint alignment. The goal in weight-bearing is the more the clients stand, the more their body will adapt to a vertical position, which can lead to the increase of blood to the brain facilitating overall recovery.

While the S.T.E.P. methodology lays the foundation for physical recovery, Lozano knows that true progress extends beyond the muscles and nerves. He emphasizes the importance of emotional well-being, as it greatly impacts the body’s response to therapy. This unique approach ensures that his clients don't just work through physical exercise but are also mentally and emotionally supported throughout their recovery journey. “For me, I like to generally see how my client’s doing, and the first thing I ask is how is your body feeling?” Nathan Lozano said.

He also expressed how when asking these questions to his clients shifts the client's mindset because it makes them feel heard. As human beings it allows them to want to perform better not only for themselves but for the person who is genuinely caring for them to reach their personal goals.

This also can challenge Lozano as a Specialist because there can be many deciding factors with the emotional needs of his clients that can negatively impact their bodies. For example, Lozano gave a scenario where if one of his clients came to the physical therapy stressed not only does it affect them emotionally but it puts their body in a negative situation in not performing to the highest potential and it also makes training plans hard for Lozano to try to test his client's capabilities.

One solution he has found to this challenge is being able to listen to his clients and motivate them to put all their negative energy or whatever situation they are going through into the training session. This strategy has proven to be effective because it has allowed his clients to push themselves to another level that they wouldn't have otherwise gone through if they let themselves stay in that negative mindset and terrible emotional state.

This personal connection also informs how Lozano adapts his treatment plans. He listens to his clients' needs and modifies the exercises to ensure progress while minimizing the risk of injury. The biggest example of this comes with positioning a client in certain workouts where they can hit a certain muscle group and execute the workout efficiently even if the reps are cut down to save the body’s energy for the entire workout. “With positioning it is all about trial and error and you can’t be afraid to fail to know how to adapt correctly.” Nathan Lozano said.

Ultimately, Loazanos’ approach is about more than physical recovery it’s about empowering clients to overcome both physical and emotional challenges, giving them the tools to thrive in life. Whether it’s a client like Christopher Clark or someone facing different neurological challenges, Lozano’s work goes beyond the training sessions at the gym.

It’s about creating an environment where clients are empowered to reclaim their independence, rebuild their confidence, and ultimately live fuller, more connected lives.

By: Zachary Grech - Student University of La Verne Class of 2025

“Riding to honor his life” 40 years of breakthroughs

The Randy Horowitz Story- THE STORY OF A PAST PERFECT STEP CLIENT

POMONA, CALIFORNIA

It is audible, ear piercing, horrendous. It is such an eerie sound that you become more alert. The problem is you lack feeling. Not the kind of feeling that you are thinking of, but the feeling of life. A life where things are abundant, and you are free. The only feeling that you can sensitize with is horror, pain, discomfort.

Your eyes open and you look. You see something that is far from angelic, but the constant reference from those around you is to that of something referred to as a “halo.” This is not what you suspected when you thought of the possibility of seeing an angel or what we depict as a representation of angels here on this earth. You try to refocus. It appears to be metal. Steel caged. You see the screws. Completely pointy, jagged, straight out of Home Depot. You are looking so far up above your head to try and make eye contact with the screws, that your eyes nearly roll in the back of your head. You cannot get calm while trying to make sense of what is going on around you, within you, and through you, so you zone out, into a deep dark place.

The pressure is unbearable. Those jagged screws drive deeper and deeper into your skull, piercing through your skin with nothing to protect you other than local anesthesia. While the pain is unforgettable, unimaginable, and almost physically deteriorating to the point of death, the pain serves as another purpose. In a weird way, it is a reminder that you are still breathing, you are still here, and even though the pain is something that you would never wish upon your worst enemy, it’s still a reminder that you have physical feelings and that your heart is beating.

It’s August 21, 1981.

You blink.

It is now 2021.

Randy Horowitz, a local realtor for Century 21 Peak in Upland California, serves the foothill community area and is a father of two children, a grandfather, and a loving husband.

Do not confuse Randy’s distinctive gait pattern with a hitch in his step and a limp to his walk as a representation of his perceived mentality, as it is much more of a representation of his past than it is anything else.

Randy has been in the real estate industry for 30 years. He and his loving and supportive wife, Candis (Candy), have been parents of 30+ years to two great children, Taylor (son) and Ashton (daughter). Taylor is married (Carolyn) and has a child of his own (Edison), with another one on the way. Ashton is married to her high school sweetheart, Matt, and they have a daughter of their own, Paxton. Randy and Candy have been loving their newfound role of being grandparents in more recent years. The idea of continuing to give to others and supporting those whom they love is simply in their DNA.

This approach is an inherent trait of the Horowitz family from top to bottom. They have an uncanny mentality of being selfless and supporting their local communities. This has been instilled in both Taylor and Ashton from their upbringing. While Randy has inherently lived as a giving man of faith, rooted in his Jewish culture, he has also had some reaffirming life events that have put a seal on his notion of the importance of life itself and serving others.

Randy has taken a hard-nosed approach towards his promotion, advocacy, and support of many things in the local communities over the years, but namely his support of The Be Perfect Foundation. The Be Perfect Foundation is a 501©(3) nonprofit organization that raises funds for individuals living with paralysis, something that hits home for Randy. The program services that are considered by The Be Perfect Foundation are providing financial and emotional support to those post-injury and diagnosis for things like wheelchairs, medical supplies, home and car adaptations, and participation in exercise-based therapy programs. The nonprofit organization has been around since 2007 after its founder suffered a life-altering injury himself. The grassroots organization does not have paid staff, ensuring that 99.9% of every dollar donated goes directly back to program services and individuals in need. Since its inception in late 2007, the nonprofit organization has raised over $7 million for individuals suffering from paralysis.

Randy has grown overwhelmingly passionate about advocating for those that The Be Perfect Foundation supports and identifies as individuals in need. This affinity for The Be Perfect Foundation came about as an ironic twist of fate.

Randy’s daughter, Ashton, graduated from the University of Colorado at Boulder with a degree in Integrative Physiology (study of body movements). Upon moving back to the Southern California area in 2013, after her college studies were completed, Ashton started to pursue her career path orientation in a direction toward something that she was passionate about. Ashton’s passion for the body, how it moves, and how to rehabilitate it post-injury/diagnosis reflected many years of observation and overwhelming passion toward her dad’s lifestyle. This passionate interest of the field landed Ashton a job in the field of paralysis recovery at a facility in Claremont, called Project Walk.

Project Walk (has been renamed since then and is currently known as The Perfect Step) is an outpatient recovery center designed to provide therapeutic interventions for those suffering from paralysis that is predicated around high-intensity therapy, loadbearing, exercise, and reconnecting the nervous system/brain to the rest of the body. Ashton immediately fell in love with her job’s sake and more importantly the clientele that she was serving. Her 7+ year journey in the field of paralysis recovery is a reminder to her every day of the many life lessons that she was taught as a kid.

This simple introduction to the Project Walk brand, community, and clientele was an indirect introduction to The Be Perfect Foundation. The owners of Project Walk, Claremont, are also the founders of The Be Perfect Foundation. Project Walk, now The Perfect Step, serves as the bricks and mortar paralysis recovery center to individuals in need in the greater Los Angeles area, while The Be Perfect Foundation serves as a resource of hope and financial security to those individuals as well to be able to afford this world-class therapy. Thus, Randy became passionate about supporting his daughter’s endeavors and her career path orientation while making a difference in the lives of those that he could so closely relate.

Some may not see the struggles that come along with spinal cord injury, at least those that are not ever so apparent, visually, to somebody that is ambulatory (walking) or semi-ambulatory (walking with assistance). It takes effort to get to know the true depths of somebody, what they have been through, where they have come from, and where they are headed. A simple conversation about more than just the weather outside may get you there. Or maybe it will not. But we all are so quick to judge off a façade, a preconceived notion, or a visual judgment, that we immediately jump to conclusions on what we believe is such or so. If you were to talk to Randy in depth he would tell you, his story.

On August 21, 1981, Randy was on a river trip with several friends. Randy was involved in a diving accident at the river, breaking his neck at the C-5 level, leaving him a spinal cord injury, and paralyzed from the neck down. After being rushed to the hospital and stabilized with a “halo” drilled into his skull, in order to realign his spine, Randy was still in bad shape. Most prognosis after an injury like this offers little to no hope of physical recovery and what is to come thereafter. 40 years later the story is told much differently.

The year 2021 followed the most tumultuous year that many people have ever experienced in their life, for those who are living presently in the 21st century. Following a nationwide pandemic, that challenged people’s finances, mental health, security, relationships, and much more, nothing would be more fitting to get back up on your high horse than to do the near impossible.

40 years ago, to that of 2021, 1981, was the year of Randy Horowitz’ unforgettable accident. While August 21, 1981, and the events that compiled were an accident, what has happened since has not been by accident, but through intention. An intention through a mentality within Randy to never let a single day go by as a day that was lost, unfulfilled, and un-impactful on others.

To commemorate the 40-year anniversary of Randy’s accident, he is going to participate on November 13, 2021, in the Tour De Foothills “Century Ride” (a cycling ride along the foothill communities in Southern California). Randy will cycle on his bicycle 100+ miles, under his own power, in honor and as a reminder to himself of all that is possible through hard work, determination, hope, and faith. For a man that maybe once thought that he may not have much hope for a fulfilled life, this is not a bad sign, stamp, and seal of approval to an unbelievable life 40 years post-injury.

What is more, is Randy’s intentionality behind why he is setting out to accomplish such a monumental feat. Randy intends to raise awareness and even more importantly fundraise through the race, for proceeds to go directly back to those in need through The Be Perfect Foundation. Randy intends to be surrounded by many at the finish line that day including his loving and supportive wife of over 35 years, his kids, grandchildren, fellow realtors, community supporters, friends, and interested local news outlets. While finishing the race will be symbolic of something incredible, just starting the race on his own two feet is where this story truly starts.

If you were to have told somebody at the age of nearly 20 years old that they would sustain a spinal cord injury, have little to no hope to walk again and then: carry on to marry the love of their life, start an incredible family, become a loving grandparent, become a renowned realtor, become a notable advocate for the spinal cord injury community, and become a philanthropist beyond belief, you wouldn’t believe that that story could be lived. If you are then to write a P.S. monologue and continuation of that story to then say, 40 years after that spinal cord injury that individual would have the wherewithal to get back on their bike and complete a grueling 100+ mile bike ride to raise awareness for those living with paralysis, you would think that that is something only told in Hollywood. But this is real life. These miracles, these achievements, and the stories do happen… Regardless of how much pain and suffering one can go through, there is always that opportunity to bounce back. Sometimes it’s not the setback, but merely the comeback. It all starts with one single step in the right direction, the perfect step.

November 13, 2021

The alarm clock awakens you out of deep sleep. You start huffing and puffing out of what you have just reflected on in your dream state. You wake up thinking it is real. Your eyes pierce open to what you think is going to be something angelic, and it is this time… It is the light shining through the curtains, resembling a new day, the day of the “Century Ride.”

You take one step out of your bed and onto feet that have many miles on them, 60+ years of miles. It’s not easy, it’s not flawless, there’s a hitch in it, but it’s moving forward. And then you are reminded not how far you were setback, but merely how far you have come. Your pursuit of living, family, parenting, grandparenting, philanthropy, and walking again is your proof. You have already won, you have already started the race and in many ways the race has already been finished, but still, you move forward to cross the finish line. When you cross the finish line the noise is audible and ear piercing, but for all the right reasons. The outside noise in life is a reminder to you of what drives you forward, not what paralyzes you. You think it is the trophy that is going to give you the satisfaction, but then you think again, and it has actually been the journey and how you have gotten there that seems to stand out. Your pain did not limit you but merely enabled you to open your eyes to what was right in front of you all along, the finish line.

In life, painful experiences reshape our mentality. Sometimes these mentalities create actionable paralysis and sometimes they promote action.

To learn more about Randy’s pursuit of the “Century Ride” feel free to follow the updates on his Instagram handles:

@randy_horowitz_c21peak

@randyhc21

To learn more about The Be Perfect Foundation visit beperfectfoundation.org. On their website click on the donate tab where you can make a donation in honor of Randy for the “Century Ride.”

To learn more about The Perfect Step visit theperfectstep.com.