On May 19, 2017, three individuals and one community organization received the Eagle Spirit Award at the 2017 Victories of Spirit Celebration. The award symbolizes the Eagle Spirit, a Navajo sign of the most potent healing power — one that elicits images of soaring, conquering and excelling. Victories of Spirit is a night that celebrates such triumphs and those who make them possible.

Lance Magin

Lance sustained a spinal cord injury in a 1974 motorcycle racing accident that left him paralyzed. He returned to racing and became the first paraplegic to compete in the Baja 1000. Lance's relationship with Sharp Rehabilitation began in 1984 and continues today. As an advocate for the disabled community, Lance cofounded the Motorsports Program for the Paralyzed Veterans of America and the Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp in San Diego for disabled children.

Kalim Smith

Kalim is an expert in languages and cultures, as well as a renowned creator of traditional Hawaiian percussion instruments (ipu heke). His enthusiasm for life continued after a devastating spinal cord injury in 2011. Today, Kalim helps others by serving as an advocate for accessible housing, parking and improved beach access in the Carlsbad community.

Dave Thomas

In 2015, Dave suffered a stroke and wasn't expected to live. But Dave's family and the support of his community helped him defy the odds. With outpatient therapy in the pool at Sharp Grossmont Rehabilitatoin, he works hard to overcome his physical challenges. Today, Dave volunteers at El Capitan High School coaching water polo. His competitive spirit, sense of humor and positive attitude inspire everyone he meets.

Disability Support Programs and Services (DSPS)

DSPS (a part of San Diego Community College District) helps students with disabilities achieve their goals through education and vocational opportunities. These students include persons with learning disabilities, impairments in mobility, acquired brain injuries and other medical disabilities.