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KXLY4 Extreme Team helping injured man regain freedom

Posted: 10:03 pm PST November 17,2009Updated: 11:21 am PST November 18,2009

Crews with the KXLY4 Extreme Team are working on a massive home remodel on Spokane’s south hill for one deserving man.

Contractors, family, and friends came out Tuesday to help 21-year old Robert Yamada, who was paralyzed in a diving accident on Lake Roosevelt this summer.

Last week, KXLY4 traveled to Denver, Colorado to see Robert, while crews in Spokane worked feverishly to get his home ready for his return.

"People stare at me a lot, but it doesn't bother me too much," Robert said.

Over the last three months, Robert has gotten accustomed to the stares, and he has barely noticed the new attention because he has been too busy getting his life back.

"Going from being able to walk to being a quadriplegic," Robert said.

For Robert, life has been a constant journey from one activity to the next. He has been wakeboarding, fishing, snowboarding and skateboarding, but now, just going to a coffee shop is a major undertaking because of a diving accident in August that nearly ended his life.

"I didn't get it at first, it was a complete shock,” said Robert’s mom, Renea Yamada. “And, after I listened, the panic set in."

Renea now spends most of her time at Craig Hospital in Denver, which is one of the top rehab hospitals in the world.

Renea and her husband John have put their lives on hold to help Robert rebuild his.

“He’s dealing with a lot right now and he’s doing it very courageously,” John said.

Robert was once an active young man, but now he needs electrodes to move his muscles.

Even with these obstacles, Robert is determined to live out his dreams.

"Still plan on going onto college and finishing college and doing all that, and hopefully, maybe having a family and doing some traveling. Having a good time with my life and not sitting in a dark room,” Robert said.

Letting Robert regain his freedom is why this construction project is so important.

Contractors, friends, family and the Extreme Team are trying to get Robert's house ready for his return home next month. They need everything from new lighting to wall sockets for Robert’s oxygen.

Robert and his family had no idea they had this much love and support.

“I never thought I would have to find out about it, but what they have done for us is complete," Renea said.

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