In January 2002 I sustained a burst/dislocation fracture on my T12 vertebrae. Since then, the lower half of my body has been completely paralyzed (no feeling or movement). Doctors told me I would live the rest of my life in a wheelchair.
Traditionally, they would be right but I learned to walk at a place called the "Sit Tall Stand Tall Program" in Provo, Utah. I would not be walking today if I didn't go there. I use KAFO leg braces, offset canes, and pure skill to walk the way I do.
It took me 2 years of working 2-3 hours a day, 5 days a week to learn to walk again. I've seen others like me walking and even other with injuries higher than I do.
The truth is, many paralyzed people have a choice between a wheelchair and walking. I am living proof.