SCI Superstar: Wesley Hamilton

Wesley Hamilton is the very definition of turning a bad situation into one that deserves a Lifetime movie. Injured in a gun violence in 2012, he went on to find a new version of himself since his injury. Not only did he transform his body after his accident, Wesley went on to start a nonprofit that is helping others like him do the same.

But that’s just some of the amazing things he’s done since becoming paralyzed. Motivating others through speaking is another one of his passions and it quickly got him noticed across the country. Read more about Wesley’s positive spirit.

Why He’s Fearless?

Growing up on the Eastside of Kansas City, Missouri, Wesley was going along living his life when everything changed in 2012. He was shot multiple times by someone he didn’t know and found himself paralyzed at age 24. Wesley was a new single father with sole custody at the time, and at 230 pounds and 5’4, his body was not suited to being in a wheelchair full-time.

Inevitably, 2 years after being paralyzed, he developed a serious bed sore that required surgery. Weight was always something he always struggled with; he was never an athlete. Luckily, he had healthcare workers who inspired him to lose weight. Once he learned about protein and taking up a weightlifting regimen, he was off. He even studied to become a dietitian and is now a Vegan.

Wesley in total lost 100 pounds. After losing the weight, he felt so inspired that he wanted to share the power of taking control of your health & weight with others with paralysis. This is why in 2015 he started his nonprofit, The Disabled But Not Really Foundation, to encourage people with SCI to exercise no matter their ability. 

The Disabled But Not Really Foundation took off and is what motivates Wesley. His foundation helps people with paralysis get in shape and it also helps the greater community, like the homeless, with their “Hydrate the Homeless” program.

What’s Next?

Wesley also discovered he was good at motivational speaking after his injury and speaks at high schools, businesses and around the entire world. He loves to speak on the importance of believing in yourself. “I wake up everyday and love myself,” he says. His confidence without question has the ability to instill the same in his audience.

Wesley also speaks on the power of finding courage, overcoming obstacles, never giving up and creating positive energy. “If you surround yourself with positive energy, great opportunities will come your way,” he says. And it has certainly worked for him. In 2017, his story was featured in Men’s Health Magazine and in 2018, he won $18,000 from the WeWork’s Creator Awards. He was also featured in Ebony Magazine in 2018 for his foundation.

But Wesley’s life became became nationally known when in 2019 when he was featured in a Queer Eye episode and had the opportunity to share his story with the world, which he certainly did. His poignant story reached millions and brought awareness to those living with spinal cord injuries. 

Outside of speaking globally, Wesley has went on to become an Expert DEI/ADA Consultant as well; a natural career choice for a man passionate about improving the lives of people living with disabilities.

— Wesley Hamilton
— The Disabled But Not Really Foundation