Jason Johnson

Jason is a lifelong athlete and fitness advocate. In April 2019, during a snowboarding trip to Mammoth, California, he suffered a life-changing accident. He fractured 21 ribs and his L1 vertebra, spending three months in the hospital unable to move his arms or legs, followed by eight months of aquatic therapy to regain strength and mobility. Since his accident, Jason has limited mobility and uses a wheelchair.

He has remained committed to physical activity and initially participated in 5K and 10K races in his everyday wheelchair. During the pandemic, a friend and adaptive athlete from Angel City, Rob Balucas, introduced him to Angel City Sports and its equipment loan program, which enabled him to acquire a competition handcycle. He soon competed in the Pasadena Triathlon, took up rowing, and continued surfing. He has also added sports like tennis and pickleball to his impressive resume, and he’s giving back to the community by starting a program to teach children to swim.

Jason’s sporting experiences and adventures are centered on community and connection, something he considers vital for people with life-altering disabilities, such as a spinal cord injury.

“There is depression and hopelessness as you process and work through your recovery. But having opportunities to get outside, participate in adaptive sports, and be part of a group of peers is incredibly important for both physical and mental health.”

Thank you, Jason, for leading by example, helping others, and showing us the power of sport. Join first responders like Jason at Courage Weekend, October 14 and 15, to celebrate the adaptive athletes who are part of this incredible community of veterans and first responders.