Who Is Your Hero?

Do you have a personal hero? Tell us about them. It doesn’t have to be perfect to make a difference in someone else’s life.

Your Everyday Hero: Cliff M.

While working a summer job, Cliff jack-hammered through three buried high-voltage lines and was hit with 30,000 volts.

The accident burned off two toes, dislodged the back of his skull and fused his knee joints, shoulder and back. He experienced cardiac arrest three different times, and doctors recommended amputation of Cliff's legs.

Cliff found a doctor who was able to repair his legs. Fifteen surgeries later, doctors told him that he would never walk again. Cliff took that statement as a challenge. He began a regimen of weight-lifting, swimming and outrigger canoe paddling. His coach had to carry him to the canoe. After almost four years of determination, Cliff was able to walk again. He didn't stop there.

In 1993, Cliff was able to qualify for the U.S. Kayak Nationals. Two years later, at the Denver Olympic Festival, Cliff won gold, silver and bronze medals. In 1996, he made the U.S. Olympic Team.

Cliff also qualified for the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Two days before the Opening Ceremonies, he learned that he had been chosen as the one to carry the flag into the stadium. It is one of the highest honors for an American athlete.

Story was submitted anonymously