Rome Teen Survives Crash, Now Helps Kids With Disabilities

Will Bowerman shouldn't be here. At 9 years old, the Rome teen suffered cardiac arrest, a spinal fracture, broken ribs, a shattered clavicle, and a ruptured spleen in a car crash that nearly took his life.

The recovery was grueling. Will had to relearn how to walk, spending months in the hospital watching other children struggle through their own traumatic injuries.

But something happened during those long hospital days. Instead of focusing on his pain, Will found himself inspired by the resilience of the kids around him.

Now 17, Will volunteers with Extra Special People, an organization serving children with disabilities through year-round sports and arts programs. He's channeling his second chance at life into helping others discover their own strength.

"It's kind of grown my appreciation for people who work hard through these traumatic events," Will said. "Some participants at ESP, they just needed a little more time. They can do everything that we can do."

His friend Andrew Griffin Wellborn says ESP has created something special in their community. Young people with ADHD and other disabilities come to the facility and immediately feel welcome, like family.

Founded in 1986, ESP is expanding this year with a new facility in Rome. Will is actively involved in the renovation, dreaming of a space where every person of every ability can move through easily.

Sunny's Take

Will's mother Tiffany has watched her son transform his trauma into compassion. She says he's learned that everyone has a place in the world, and we serve each other best when we help each other along.

The teenager who once needed intensive care to survive is now the one offering care to others. He's helping kids make friends, build confidence, and realize their own potential.

Will looks forward to seeing more children thrive once the Rome facility opens fully. His vision is simple but powerful: a place built for every ability, where everyone belongs.

Sometimes the hardest journeys lead us exactly where we're meant to be.