Rogers
High School sophomore Jacoby Miles, who was paralyzed last year after
sustaining a neck injury during gymnastics practice, can ride her
motorized wheelchair to and from school with ease thanks to the
volunteer efforts of more than 50 of her classmates and several
teachers.
The
students and teachers partnered with community agencies to replace a
100-foot section of grass with pavers to connect her housing development
with a sidewalk that leads to the high school. Miles lives just south
of Rogers High School near Heritage Park Recreation Center.
Rogers
High science teacher Steve Bright offered to donate some of the profits
from the sales of plants grown in the school greenhouse to pay for the
path. He also teamed with several businesses and Pierce County agencies
to get materials and equipment to complete the project this month.
While
Miles had no difficulty in good weather traveling the grass path in her
wheelchair, it became more difficult to maneuver during the rainy
season when the area turned muddy.
The
new path is the latest example of support by local schools and the
surrounding community to help the Puyallup teenager and her family.
There have been numerous local fundraisers, as well as a makeover of her
home, following her injury in November 2012.
Watch the King 5 News story that aired January 28, 2014.