2008 Woodie Awards
In honor of Allen Patterson
Issue date: 1/17/06 Section: Letters to the Editor
I work in the University Relations department and on a daily basis, we collect press clippings. On November 28, we were looking for a clipping that would deeply sadden my heart and spirit. A student of UNCG, Allen Patterson, had passed.
Allen was no ordinary student - he was paralyzed from the neck down and moved around campus in a wheelchair by blowing in a tube. I had seen Allen for years either on his way to class or at times, sitting in front of the EUC. He became a very vibrant part of the campus community.
Unfortunately, I did not know Allen on a personal basis, yet I knew he inspired me to appreciate my health and physical capabilities. I knew to respect the education I had, and the graduate degree I was pursuing, because it was indeed a privileged gift.
Allen not only inspired me but also Christopher Reeves, who shared his story on the Good Morning America show. Our campus will not be the same and to be honest, it shouldn't be.
Debbie Schallock
Allen was no ordinary student - he was paralyzed from the neck down and moved around campus in a wheelchair by blowing in a tube. I had seen Allen for years either on his way to class or at times, sitting in front of the EUC. He became a very vibrant part of the campus community.
Unfortunately, I did not know Allen on a personal basis, yet I knew he inspired me to appreciate my health and physical capabilities. I knew to respect the education I had, and the graduate degree I was pursuing, because it was indeed a privileged gift.
Allen not only inspired me but also Christopher Reeves, who shared his story on the Good Morning America show. Our campus will not be the same and to be honest, it shouldn't be.
Debbie Schallock
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