Jonathan Peavey is selected as the 6th Annual AIM High Endurance Awards “Moving People Forward” recipient from Alternatives in Motion. The award is given to an individual who demonstrates strength and endurance while inspiring, motivating, and encouraging others to reach their full potential. The award ceremony is to take place on Nov. 8 at 6 p.m. at the Thousand Oaks Golf Club. More information about the ceremony can be found at www.aimhigh.aimgr.org.
Thirty-three years ago the doctors told Peavey’s parents not to expect him to live long. Born with cerebral palsy, practically mute and perpetually challenged, what’s a man to do? Everything.
Peavey’s life has been a constant struggle to survive dismal expectations, little support outside of his immediate family, and an often insensitive medical community, aside from the care of one doctor who never failed to believe; yet he has continually influenced those around him, sometimes before they’ve met and often with live-changing results. What many would consider to be a winless battle is simply “normal” to a man who has survived more than three decades beyond what anyone in the “delivery room” expected.
In 1992 surgery took part of his legs. In 1996 a feeding tube took his ability to taste. In 2006 a tracheotomy took his voice. Each time he was given the option of surviving by giving up a physical part of himself or letting go. In each case, Jonathan chose to live. In 2010 he participated in his first marathon.
“Jonathan’s life is a living testimony that when society says you can’t do something, you can” said Angela Peavey. “He’s participated in over 30 endurance events, raised a lot of money for charities worldwide through a documentary about his life, educated people about living with a disability; and in the end he wants nothing but to share encouragement, hope, and joy to other ‘Jonathan’s’ around the world.”
West Michigan is home to great leaders, coaches, race directors, mentors, charities, sponsors, and volunteers that make our endurance events possible. A.I.M. High awards focus on the people who have made the commitments and sacrifices to challenge themselves and do something most people will never even try.
“In 24 years serving and empowering thousands of persons with disabilities we have created a stronger healthier community today” said Coleen Davis, Executive Director of Alternatives in Motion. “We’re excited to invite the community to get to know us and our vital mission, in addition to honoring this year Awardees.”
