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Dawna Zane

This wahine foster’s a positive life outlook and an unwavering focus on her goals to overcome challenges. She says, “Life is precious. I don’t take life for granted because I know how easily it could’ve been taken from me. Take one day at a time. Enjoy the small things life has to offer.”

After a car accident left her paralyzed over 25 years ago, then a high school senior, Dawna stayed focused on her future instead of dwelling upon what she no longer could do. She even attended prom while still being in in-patient rehab.

After high school she went on to receive her bachelor’s degree and her master’s degree and today she is married and works full time as a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist serving individuals with disabilities and helping them to achieve their goals toward meaningful employment. She also finds time to train and is currently training for her 21st Honolulu Marathon. She also competed in numerous Outrigger Canoe races, including the Moloka’i Channel. “I try to live a balanced life of work, play, family, health and wellness. It’s sometimes hard to balance my full-time work schedule with the other areas of life but she makes it a priority. Maintaining a healthy, well-balanced lifestyle, especially for a person living with SCI is so important.” Dawna says. She also shares that she has been on many adventures since her accident that includes shark cage diving, skydiving, ice fishing, dog sledding and skiing in Alaska and traveling to places such as Japan, Canada and New Zealand.

With those also living with SCI, Dawna says, “Don’t give up, believe in yourself. Set goals for yourself and focus on the possibilities. It’s OK to feel how you may be feeling at the time but know that you can still live a happy and productive life.”

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