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Constantine Z.  Family & Caregiver Few leave an impression like Constantine Zografopoulos. 15 years ago, Constantine was in a car accident that resulted in the amputation of both of his legs above the knee. Constantine embraced the challenges, and went on to empower others with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives through sports, entrepreneurship and accessible travel. On April 26, 2010, Constantine's life mission further hit home when his father, Modestos, suffered a stroke. A tale of courage, patience, and love has forged forward as rarely seen. All the lessons that Constantine has learned living with his own disabilities are now uniquely being transitioned to his father as he embarks on a life with limitations since the stroke. Constantine has been his father's caregiver, never leaving his bedside. Constantine continuously educates and inserts himself in his father's treatment. He keeps his father's OT and PT going past their appointments. He finds ways to improve the pureed foods his father eats. He embraces his father's health care team, bringing them delicious holiday meals. Constantine comforts other patients without regular visitors. To include friends in his father's recovery, Constantine uses Facebook to give "Camping with Modestos" updates with pictures and inspiring words. Modestos is finally home with Constantine, who is now focusing on his next mission to journalize their path to help educate stroke survivors and their families. Few people meet Constantine and leave unchanged by his message and compassion. His journey is the face of stroke, a breath of hope and light amidst the uphill battles and tribulations. |
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