Commemorating and Honoring Ryan Chalmers on his "Push Across America" Challenge: crossing The United States from Los Angeles to New York City, arriving at Philadelphia on Wednesday, June 12, 2013, in his racing wheelchair.

WHEREAS, Ryan Chalmers was born with Spina Bifida, which impaired his ability to use his legs, but he did not let his disability hold him back: he played sports from elementary school through college, and accomplished a major achievement by becoming a member of Team USA at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London; and

WHEREAS, In 2005, Mr. Chalmers became involved with “Stay-Focused,” a non-profit organization that offers a transformational learning experience for teens and young adults with disabilities, learning to SCUBA dive, which changed his life, eventually, becoming a professionally-certified Divemaster; and

WHEREAS, Ryan Chalmers decided to pursue a “Push Across America” challenge and adventure: crossing the country from Los Angeles to New York City, arriving at Philadelphia on Wednesday, June 12, 2013; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Chalmers has crossed deserts, climbed mountains, and pushed through storms, in accomplishing his “Push Across America”; and

WHEREAS, Through his “Push Across America,” Ryan Chalmers is raising awareness for the potential of all persons with disabilities, and is commemorating the 10th Anniversary of “Stay-Focused”; and

WHEREAS, The City of Philadelphia is grateful that Mr. Chalmers has undertaken this challenge and inspired us all with his demonstration of what a person with a disability can do with vision and determination; and

WHEREAS, The City of Philadelphia is also grateful that Ryan Chalmers has chosen to travel through Philadelphia—a City synonymous with Independence; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Council of the City of Philadelphia, Commemorates and honors Ryan Chalmers on his “Push Across America” Challenge: crossing The United States from Los Angeles to New York City, arriving at Philadelphia on Wednesday, June 12, 2013, in his racing wheelchair.

RESOLVED FURTHER, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Mr. Chalmers.

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