Collin’s Graduation

Over eight years ago, Collin sustained a spinal cord injury which left him a quadriplegic. When Ernest (a man who attends Collin’s church) heard of the accident, he felt the Lord call him to assist, though the two had never met. For eight years, Ernest, a 72-year old retired engineer, has risen at 4:30am and driven to Collin’s house to get him up and ready for school. The routine became more challenging when Collin entered High Point University. Monday through Friday, it meant a 45-minute drive to High Point, wheeling Collin to his classes, and taking his notes. When Collin graduated in 2013, High Point University awarded him with a degree in communications, and—to both men’s surprise—the school also awarded Ernest with an honorary Bachelor of Humane Letters. Way to go, Ernest and Collin! Here’s what Collins says about Ernest: “Ernest is a great man, but mostly he’s a faithful servant of God. He’s also been a tremendous help in allowing me to move forward and to see that a lot of things are possible. I just needed to experience things to know that I could do more… He’s more than a friend. Ernest is like a father to me, a grandfather. He became family.” Could there be a Collin in your church or community who needs a helping hand? Let Ernest be your inspiration!