My name is Jorge Goulart and I’m from New Bedford, Massachusetts. I’m a proud father of two daughters and a son, and my beautiful wife and family are among the biggest reasons I continue to push forward every day.

Seven years ago, while working as a roofer, I saved a man’s life- but in the process, I nearly lost my own. The accident left me paralyzed and changed my life forever. At the time, I had a 10-week-old baby girl, and suddenly, I was faced with a new life that I never expected. Learning to accept my circumstances and figure out how to move forward was one of the hardest challenges I’ve ever faced.

I came from a negative background, but I refused to let it overcome me. Instead, it taught me to fight for what I want, stand up for what I believe in, and never give up on myself. My journey hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve learned that the hardest moments in life can reveal a strength you never knew you had.

Two years ago, a friend showed me an article about Vaughn Pfeffer and told me about Adaptive Sports New England’s wheelchair football clinic. That moment introduced me to adaptive sports, and it changed my life in ways I never imagined. I started playing wheelchair football and basketball, and through sports, I found something I had been missing: confidence, purpose, and a community of people who understood my journey.

Joining the New England Patriots Wheelchair Football Team has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. From the very first football clinic, my teammates welcomed me and made me feel like I belonged. We share more than a love for sports; we understand the challenges of living with paralysis and we support one another through the good days as well as the hard ones. These men and women have become more than teammates. They have become lifelong friends who have helped me grow, believe in myself, and see what is possible.

I also want to give special recognition to my coach, Sam. He has gone above and beyond, not only as a coach but as someone who genuinely cares. During difficult times, both in sports and in my personal life, he has taken the time to call me, check on me, and remind me that I am capable of more than I sometimes realize. He believes in me, sees my potential, and pushes me to be better. Having someone who believes in you, especially when you’re struggling to believe in yourself, makes a difference that words cannot fully explain. I’m truly grateful to be part of a team he coaches and to have him in my life.

Today, I live by one simple belief: never say you can’t. Keep pushing, keep fighting, and never stop believing in yourself.

Life doesn’t always turn out the way you planned, and sometimes you have to find a new way forward. Being paralyzed changed my life, but it did not take away my determination, my love for my family, my desire to help others, or my ability to make a difference.

I love people, and I love helping others. If sharing my story can give someone hope, encourage them to try something new, or remind them that they are stronger than they think, then my journey has a purpose beyond myself.

I want people to understand that where you come from does not determine where you will go. Your circumstances do not define your potential, and your setbacks do not have to be the end of your story.

Keep pushing. Keep believing. Fight for what you want and what you believe in. Never let anyone convince you that you can’t accomplish something. Everything is possible when you refuse to give up.

Sincerely, Jorge.