The co-founder of the Shepherd Center has died at the age of 68. James Shepherd who founded Atlanta’s leading spinal rehabilitation center after suffering a spinal cord injury of his own in the 1970s died Saturday morning, according to Georgia Hospital Association President Earl Rogers.
Rogers wrote the following tribute to Shepherd. It is posted below in its entirety.
This morning, the world lost a legend. I am deeply saddened to report that Shepherd Center Co-Founder James Shepherd passed away at the age of 68.
James meant so much to so many across this great nation. Along with his father Harold, who passed away almost exactly a year ago, his mother Alana, and Dr. David Apple, they founded the Shepherd Center. This great facility is responsible for improving the way of life of thousands of patients with brain and spinal cord-related illnesses and injuries.
James was the catalyst for the Shepherd Center. He suffered a spinal cord injury in 1973 that left him paralyzed. Frustrated by the lack of state-of-the-art rehabilitation care in the Southeast, the family garnered support among the Atlanta community and the facility opened in 1975.
James was always willing to help when needed and was a great asset to the Georgia Hospital Association and we were pleased to honor him with a Hospital Hero Award in 2006.
Any time I needed James, he was there and willing to assist. People from all across America know the Shepherd Center and what it represents. It truly is inspirational to hear all the stories of patients whose negative diagnoses about walking again or even living a normal life were changed by the work of the Shepherd Center, all made possible because of James and his family.
His efforts in the community are second to none. Almost every day I would read an article and see a picture of James giving back by supporting a worthwhile cause.
James had an indomitable spirit. After his injury almost 50 years ago, he grew stronger in his faith. He truly cared about others and did everything in his power for his fellow man and woman.
Earl Rogers
President and CEO
Georgia Hospital Association
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