Five years ago, Greg Johnson shared his spinal cord injury journey with the NORSCIS Research Team. Today, he reflects on the progress he’s made, the challenges he continues to face, and the mindset that keeps him moving forward.
Since his injury, Greg has experienced meaningful improvements in strength, and many everyday tasks have become easier. While he has regained function over time, hand strength and dexterity remain difficult. Simple tasks like opening a jar can still be a challenge.
One of Greg’s biggest struggles today is chronic pain.
“As an incomplete injury, I’ve regained some sensation, which is great,” Greg explains. “But the pain comes with that. I actually have more pain now than I did at the beginning of my injury. Function and feeling can return, but so can the pain.”
Despite the daily challenges, Greg is determined not to let his injury define him.
“I’ve been trying my best not to lose myself,” he says.
His 13-year-old daughter remains one of his greatest motivations. Greg wants to stay active and present in her life while continuing to provide for his family. Although pain has made it difficult to maintain full-time work in some roles, he has adapted by becoming a licensed insurance agent with Eterna Insurance Solutions.
“I’m the same person I was before my injury, and I want to bring that same energy. I’ll find a way to provide for my family.”
Greg also continues to prioritize his independence. After 18 months, he was able to return to walking full-time, something he works hard to maintain every day.
“I don’t plan on stopping,” he says. “I go for walks because I want to make sure I don’t lose that ability.”
While Greg maintains a positive attitude, he admits that adjusting to life with a disability is still an ongoing process.
“I’m still figuring out how to find myself again.”
To stay mentally strong, Greg regularly watches motivational videos and educational content on YouTube. He’s committed to lifelong learning and finding new ways to grow, both personally and professionally. Just as importantly, he hopes to use his experiences to help others with disabilities succeed.
“I want to help others with disabilities excel in life. I’m always trying to learn different ways of doing that.”
Spending quality time with his daughter also helps him stay grounded and positive, reminding him of what matters most.
When asked what advice he would give someone with a new spinal cord injury, Greg’s message is simple but powerful.
“Don’t stop. The more effort you put in, the more results you’ll get. I pray everyone gets what they desire as long as the effort is there. Support each other and lift each other up. I’m rooting for you.”
As Greg reflects on the past five years, he is especially grateful for the people who have stood beside him throughout his journey.
He credits his family, friends, and the organizations serving the disability community for helping him reach this point in his recovery.
“I wouldn’t be here without the support I’ve received.”
Greg’s story is a reminder that recovery doesn’t end after the first year—or even the fifth. Growth continues, new challenges emerge, and resilience is built one day at a time. Through determination, lifelong learning, and the support of those around him, Greg continues to move forward with hope, purpose, and a desire to encourage others along the way.
