Brad Soden, a former United States soldier and firefighter, has led an impactful life. After serving in the first Iraq war, he transitioned into a role as a firefighter, where he saved numerous lives. Brad, along with his wife Liz and their three children, resides in Phoenix, Arizona.
A Life-Altering Accident
For many years, Brad seemed to have it all. However, his life took a drastic turn on August 15, 1999, during a family trip. A sudden tire blowout caused Liz, who was driving, to lose control of their truck. Their three boys escaped with minor injuries, but Brad suffered a broken leg. Tragically, Liz broke her back and became paralyzed from the waist down.
Overcoming Challenges Together
Following emergency surgery, Liz woke up to her grim diagnosis. Overwhelmed by her sudden disability, she feared her life as she knew it was over. Doubts clouded her mind, and she worried that Brad would leave her because of her physical limitations. But Brad, being the loving and devoted man he is, made a heartwarming gesture. He proposed to her right in the hospital, and Liz accepted without hesitation.
The journey to Liz’s recovery was extensive, and her entire family provided her with unwavering support. Adjusting to her new life in a wheelchair presented considerable challenges, especially when it came to their beloved hobby – hiking. Liz’s wheelchair couldn’t navigate the rough and uneven terrains they used to explore as a family.
A Heartbreaking Sight
During a family outing, Liz was left behind due to her wheelchair’s limitations while they were following a moose trail. Tearfully, she urged her family to continue without her. Witnessing this heart-wrenching scene deeply affected Brad, and he resolved to prevent such a situation from happening again.
Brad’s Innovation
Drawing on his experience as a maintenance technician in the army and his love for Liz, Brad embarked on an ambitious project. He wanted to create an all-terrain wheelchair that would allow Liz to accompany the family wherever they ventured. However, turning his vision into reality proved to be more challenging than he expected.
Brad spent countless hours in the garage, tirelessly working on his project. The sounds of his work became a familiar backdrop for both the neighbors and Liz. His goal was to design a quiet electric engine that would operate effectively in the wilderness and at campsites. Finally, after an immense amount of time and effort, he found the solution.
A Life-Changing Invention
Calling Liz into the garage, Brad unveiled his extraordinary creation – an all-terrain wheelchair fitted with tank treads! Liz was amazed and incredibly grateful for Brad’s innovation and determination to make her life better.
Brad’s invention caught the attention of NPC Robotics, a high-tech company. Impressed by his all-terrain wheelchair, they backed Brad’s invention and constructed a prototype based on his design. Liz’s new wheelchair is now quiet, fast, and adept at off-road driving.
Overcoming Obstacles with Love
Today, when the family goes hiking, it’s Brad and the kids who struggle to keep pace with Liz. Brad’s deep love for Liz, combined with his innovative mind and determination to overcome any obstacle, shines through in this remarkable creation.
This inspiring love story serves as a reminder to support our loved ones when they face tough times. When a family member stumbles, help them rise again. Brad Soden is a man who embodies the essence of a devoted husband and father, and his story is worth sharing.
