Drew's Journey

On March 26, 2010, 15-year-old Drew Clayborn, a sophomore at Walled Lake Central High School, suffered a catastrophic C1-C2 complete spinal cord injury while attempting a backflip in the school hallway. Drew, an active student involved in football, basketball, marching band, and other activities, had been practicing the backflip for the school musical. Tragically, the attempt resulted in a life-altering injury. Immediate assistance came from Deputy Liaison Eric Overall and math teacher and football coach Nebojsa Stojkovic, who were nearby. Their quick actions, including administering CPR until EMTs arrived, were critical in stabilizing Drew. Their efforts likely made the difference between life and death, preventing potential brain damage or cognitive failure from such a severe injury near the brain stem. Once EMTs arrived, Drew was taken to Huron Valley Hospital, where he awaited a helicopter for emergency transport. His father, LeDon, made the critical decision to send him to the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor over DMC in Detroit. Drew spent the following three months adjusting to his new reality. During his recovery, he underwent numerous medical procedures for his high-level spinal cord injury and reliance on a ventilator. He also began learning about adaptive technologies that would allow him to continue his education and even return to marching band, proving his resilience and determination.