While on duty in Iraq in February of 2008, Major Philip Packer sustained a spinal cord injury that left him paraplegic. Since then he has worked hard to regain his strength and dedicates his life to raising money for charities that support the disabled community.

On his website, www.philpacker.com, he includes a quote by George Eliot that explains how he intends to live his life from now on: “What do we live for, if it is not to make life less difficult for others?"

In October 2008 Phil completed a skydive for charity strapped to an instructor, and a few months later he rowed 40 kilometers across the English Channel in a specially adapted boat. The crossing was made even more complicated by the fact that it snowed and Phil contracted a urinary tract infection, a common illness for paraplegics. Phil also plays basketball and has even ridden a horse to raise awareness of paraplegics.

Perhaps Phil's most amazing challenge so far has been completing the London Marathon on crutches. It took him almost two weeks to complete the 42 kilometers and each day was harder than the day before. He was accompanied by cheering crowds as he walked the course. The experience was by far the most exhausting he has completed.

This amazing athlete has also climbed a mountain for charity, and is an inspiration for people all over the world. Who knows what else Phil Packer and, indeed, any other disabled person can achieve?

1. Philip Packer recovered from spinal cord injuries. Philip Packer was born unable to use his legs. Philip Packer is paralyzed from the waist down.
2. He went skydiving by himself. He went skydiving with an instructor. He went skydiving on a boat.
3. He was able to row across the channel in spite of difficulties. He had to stop because of a urinary tract infection. He built an adapted boat to cross the channel.

4. He has taken up sports to pass the time. He takes part in sports as a part of his rehabilitation program. He does sports to raise awareness of paraplegics and their needs.
5. He completed the London Marathon before sustaining his injuries. He completed the London Marathon on crutches. He cheered on hundreds of people who completed the marathon.
6. He found the experience of completing the marathon very relaxing. He was completely exhausted after completing the marathon. He was completely exhausted from cheering during the marathon.