Aaron Baker

One in a Million Spirit

To recover from an injury of this magnitude it would take more than just the fire inside of Aaron. It would take the support of many people along the way. Aaron's mom, Laquita Conway, became his biggest champion, advocate, and partner in his recovery. She gave up her entire world; her dreams, her desires, and her career to see Aaron through this life changing experience. Together they challenged the grim prognosis and in the process they redefined their lives and found their personal calling.

With his mom's intense support, Aaron poured his fierce athletic spirit and single-minded determination into his recovery. He used his powers of visualization, meditation, and positive thinking to induce mind over matter. His recovery has been slow and tedious, but he has seen a tremendous amount of his function and strength return.

Two years after his injury Aaron was cycling once again on a stationary recumbent trainer. A year and a half later, he was ready to ride a real bike. Although he was not yet able to ride unassisted, he could ride on the back of a tandem bike with his mom in front. Aaron and Laquita became training partners. With each pedal stroke their resolve became clearer that, despite what appears at first to be a life shattering experience, anything is possible.

Photo courtesy of Aaron Baker

His recovery progressed so well that in 2007 Aaron, his mom and other physically challenged team members made a 3,182 mile "Rise Above" cross country bicycle tour from San Diego, CA to St. Augustine, FL. Their mission was to promote the power of possibility and inspire their friends to a life of action and purpose. In 2008 they made a second 4,200 mile cross country bicycle tour, from San Francisco to Washington, D.C. Each time they stopped along the way and spoke at rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and independent living facilities sharing their message of hope with those whose lives have been forever altered by injury or illness.

Aaron and his mom now have become partners in business as well as recovery. In 2011 they opened a niche gym in Reseda, CA, Center of Restorative Exercise (C.O.R.E.), which focuses on restorative exercise for individuals with chronic illness and/or debilitating conditions. Together they are using Aaron's "one in a million spirit" and Laquita's business savvy and open heart to help everyone who walks through the door to live life to the fullest.