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Hadrien Saperstein is a 2011 graduate and class salutatorian of Nevada Connections Academy. He is from Las Vegas, Nevada. His story is one of heart and determination to never give up and never look back.

Nothing can stand in the way of Hadrien and his passion for tennis. Hadrien was able to overcome an unbelievable setback to become a leader on the tennis court and in academics. His inspirational story is below.

In 2008, a nationally ranked youth tennis player fell not to a court opponent, but to a mosquito and a rare virus. When Hadrien contracted transverse myelitis that paralyzed him from the waist down, he knew he was in for the fight of his life. A talented teen, he was determined to beat the odds on and off the court. “I was ready to work hard, but just needed a glimmer of hope,” said Hadrien. That came after three weeks when he got his big toe to move. His no-quit attitude carried him through hospitals and rehab then onto the tennis court practicing first in a wheelchair, then a walker, canes, and finally on his own two feet.

As part of his journey back, he enrolled at Nevada Connections Academy.  He attacked his studies as vigorously as his therapy. Hadrien states philosophically, “You have to learn how to compensate for things and just do what you have to do.” His determination has paid off. A local coach said, “He was given just a 10% chance of regaining mobility but today can beat most high school players in the state.”

What about school? His parents and sister proudly watched him graduate from Nevada Connections Academy with the second highest grades in the class and give the Salutatorian speech. Along the way throughout his ordeal, his parents and peers have said they have watched Hadrien grow and develop into a kindhearted adult.. As they say, “His heart is twice as big today.” That’s not hard to believe.