My dear dad survived the dust bowl and the great depresion and WW 2 as a navy aviation chief petty officer. He became a Christian and then a minister helping others. He was hit by a drunk driver in 1970 and sustained mild brain injury and fractures to the neck. I was given durable power of attorney at that time and followed his litigation and medical care till his death in 1996. My dad was my inspiration he taught me and motivated me to become a national champion athlete in 1974, and because of him I will be an attorney this year graduating law school in 1998. I have dedicated my life to advocacy of the traumaticaly injured. Ironicaly I too have been hit by wreckless drivers under the influence, inn 1989 and 1993, I sustained neck back and brain injuries as a result. I am succeeding in recovery well. Dad showed me how to reach deep and try hard and harder. With that encouragement I became a national champion soccer player. In the fall of 1996 while dad was dying I succeeded in getting the best grade in my class in my first law school exam. I got to his bed side a few days before his death and had the priviledge of letting him know that it was dedicated to him, and that I was going to make it through law school. Some day there will be a Joseph M. Stephens scholarship for legal advocacy of those who have been traumaticaly brain and spinal cord injured. He would be very pleased with that. The last thing my dad ever said to me just minutes before he died was in answer to a question "Dad, is there anything I can do for you?" He thought, then focused his eyes and said forcefully "Son, Enjoy Your Life!" I am determined to do what my dad requested. I am doing that by becoming the best Christian Neuro Lawyer I can become, for my dear dear dad. Dad I salute you. God knows I miss you.

Gerald T. Stephens