In December 2017, The Beth Reale Foundation had the pleasure of granting United States Air Force veteran, Kevin O'Brien, a week long trip to Puerto Rico.

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In 2013, at the age of 23, Kevin underwent surgery to remove a highly malignant primary brain tumor embedded in his brain stem. After surgery and many treatments, Kevin is officially cancer free! However after the surgery, he was left with mixed spastic ataxia dysarthia, disconjugate eye movement in his left eye, difficulty speaking, very little fine motor coordination and now uses a walker. 

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While in Puerto Rico, Kevin spent most of his trip sailing around the beautiful islands. He learned about navigation, handling lines, and how to maintain balance on an ever-moving foundation. Despite having difficulty with balance and movement, he learned he was able to get himself in and out of a dinghy, and on to and off of docks. He enjoyed snorkeling and swimming, and even got to see a shark!

 

It was an honor to experience Puerto Rico with Kevin. He is proof that anything is possible when you put your mind to it, regardless of limitations.   

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Check out his trip!

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