SPORTS 'N SPOKES

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Dream Catcher

Following a life-altering injury, this angler changed his attitude and learned to take whatever comes his way.

It was 1992 when a young college-age man was torn between yet another predetermined level of life's decisions. According to society, he should go to college, get a degree, land a decent job, join mainstream America, get married, buy a house, have a family, etc. This sounded like a production assembly line for everyday clones, but 19-year-old Brandon J. (B.J.) Wettlaufer—unlike most people his age—dreamed of more exciting adventures for himself. His plans weren't white-line everyday highways.

"My best friend decided to join the U.S. Navy," recalls Wettlaufer, now a 34-year-old associate member of the New England Paralyzed Veterans of America (NEPVA). "But, I wanted more. I needed a formatted game plan, something I could control that still provided that hidden lust for excitement."

Thoughts of a military life intrigued Wettlaufer. After all, he was strong, athletic, and intelligent—a determined personality for acquiring high levels of achievement. However, this young man's visions were framed with military-elite status; only the best-of-the-best would satisfy his appetite for success.

Led by his inner spirit, Wettlaufer found solitude and peace of mind as he raced through New England's backwoods. His solo ventures saddled an ATV's echoing roar, while shifting gears signaled twisting turns along the country trail.

"Riding my ATV under extreme conditions allowed me to search my soul, aiding me in making life-changing decisions," Wettlaufer recalls. Pausing for a moment, a wry smile surfaces and he continues, "My only analogy to this feeling can be compared to flying."

Maneuvering his ATV through a series of twisting turns and hills one day, Wettlaufer suddenly realized he had launched his vehicle. Out of control, he decided to ride his ATV back to the ground. When he finally landed, he and his ATV lay side by side, motionless.


Find out how Wettlaufer, who was paralyzed in the accident, received inspiration from a Vietnam veteran who died from injuries he sustained while serving his country.

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