Brian Muscrella: A Champion’s Story

After a spinal stroke in 2011 left Brian Muscarella paralyzed from the neck down, he says “my life went from traveling every day as a managing director for New York Life and balancing a busy family in Charlotte to fighting every day to do tasks we take for granted.” Friends and family rallied around Brian as he completed his physical rehabilitation at Carolinas Rehabilitation.

As he regained his strength and eventually his muscle movement, Brian decided to honor his friends and family for the support they gave him during recovery by supporting patients who likewise fight every day to overcome the obstacles of physical disabilities. In 2011, Brian became an active participant in and supporter of the Adaptive Sports and Rehabilitation Program at Carolinas Rehabilitation.

This April, Brian completes his fourth Cycle to the Sea charity bicycle ride, traveling by hand-cycle from Charlotte, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC in less than three full days. He is a champion in more ways than one to the annual fundraiser. Under the banner of “Team Freak”, Brian and his teammates have collectively raised over $100,000 for ASAP through their participation in Cycle to the Sea. Brian comments about the event, “For me, it’s never been a choice. It has only been when I will walk again, not if. My family and dear friends have selflessly given their time and energy to my cause: I bring it every day to honor them.”

Support Brian and his fellow “Team Freak” members as they ride from Monroe, NC, to North Myrtle Beach, SC, today (April 23) through April 25, 2015. Donate here.