July 30, 2003
OREGON HEALTH CARE HERO
· Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, Vail Blackwell Horton is a self-described "man with a vision on a mission." Vail was born 25 years ago without legs and has since dedicated himself to enabling people with disabilities to become active members of their communities.
As the founder and CEO of Ken Mobility, Vail and his team of outstanding employees are developing new technologies and services to empower people with disabilities. Innovative assistive devices like the "Keen Krutch" and "Sure Foot Forearm" are engineered to significantly reduce the onset of painful conditions and ailments like osteoarthritis. Vail's products have helped improve the quality of life for many with disabilities. One client raved: "I can't find the words to tell you what your invention has done for my life . . . I am not as embarrassed to walk with my crutch because I think it is a real looker. It has given me a badly needed boost to keep on fighting the fight to live and walk in this world."
In addition to Keen Mobility, Vail founded Incight, a nonprofit organization that focuses on employment and education issues for people with disabilities. Appearing frequently as a motivational speaker, Vail aims to "educate and encourage individuals to acknowledge their handicap, but not let it dictate their life."
Vail's tireless spirit serves as an inspiration to us all. Today, I am proud to honor Vail Blackwell Horton as a Health Care Hero for the great State of Oregon.·