Anthony "Tony" Galvan-Schaible
“I can’t thank Be Perfect and its Donors enough. This injury requires a village not just to heal but to adapt with dignity and excel. This gift of support by Be Perfect and its donors brings an infusion of hope back into my life through access to my passion. Outdoor sports have always been my “church”. It was where I went for help with my depression and found a connection to life and others. This bike is both a physical health and mental health gift.” ”
Anthony "Tony" Galvan-Schaible, who sustained a C5/6 spinal cord injury in a motorcycle accident while traveling overseas on July 29, 2020, wanted to share his heartfelt gratitude for the support he received from the Be Perfect Foundation. The foundation awarded Tony a grant that proved to be a lifeline for his journey toward recovery and an active lifestyle.
The grant enabled Tony to acquire an adaptive mountain bike, more than just a means of transportation, it became a sophisticated physical therapy tool. The hand crank on the bike played a pivotal role in helping him build endurance and strength in his shoulders and arms, contributing to his overall physical rehabilitation. These improvements cascaded into enhancing his abilities in self-transfers, personal care, and other adaptive sports such as surfing and skiing.
Tony's journey had its share of challenges, including surgery to address failing hardware in his neck, which posed life-threatening risks. Following the successful surgery, he underwent 30 days of inpatient rehabilitation. During this time, he made the decision to have a baclofen pump installed, a medical device delivering microgram doses of medication directly to his spinal cord to minimize spasms and regulate blood pressure. With these vital aspects stabilized, Tony could make significant strides in physical and occupational therapy, re-engage in adaptive sports, and reconnect with friends and career opportunities.
Currently, Tony's aspirations include venturing into adaptive mountain bike racing, pursuing a Master's Degree, relearning to drive, and establishing connections with individuals facing similar challenges who require support and mentorship. He holds the Be Perfect Foundation and its generous donors in the highest regard for their unwavering support. Tony emphasizes that recovering from such an injury demands a supportive community, and the assistance he received from Be Perfect and its donors has brought renewed hope into his life by enabling him to pursue his passion.
For Tony, outdoor sports have always been a sanctuary for his mental and physical well-being, a source of solace and connection during difficult times. The adaptive mountain bike provided through the Be Perfect Foundation's support is not just a gift of physical health but also a gift of mental health, rekindling his connection to the outdoors and offering hope for a brighter future. Tony expresses his profound gratitude to Be Perfect and its donors for their invaluable support in his journey towards adaptation, dignity, and excellence.