They say if you want to make God smile, tell him you have a plan. Dwight’s plan was to live his dream; teach math and coach football; and build a comfortable life for himself. Fate had other things in store for him.
In 2005, at the age of 23, Dwight was in a horrible car accident. A 72-year-old drunk driver crashed into Dwight’s vehicle, and his life was changed forever. Dwight had broken bones, punctured lungs, a broken back, a severed spinal cord, and a life time of paralysis ahead of him. He is permanently paralyzed from the waist down. In fact, Dwight coded immediately after the accident and the doctors gave him no chance to survive. But survive he did, and what could have become a life of depression, self-pity, and bitterness has instead transformed into one of uplifting courage, self-reliance, and forgiveness. After surviving life support and an entire year in the hospital, Dwight even found the strength to forgive the driver and helped to reduce his sentence. He found the courage to turn tragedy into triumph, and he has become a motivational speaker sought after throughout Mississippi and beyond.
Dwight takes service seriously. He speaks at high schools & colleges throughout the U.S on his personalized campaign or tour called “Before You Drink, Think Dwight,” where he brings awareness to alcohol and substance abuse. Dwight has inspired countless thousands, and no doubt saved many lives. He often speaks at jails, before groups of people with disabilities, at schools and municipal gathers, and before rehab groups. He is big on helping others with self-empowerment or value, mentorship, giving hope where needed, teaching leadership, forgiveness, suicide prevention, substance abuse prevention, and helping others realize their own greatness. Dwight is also an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) Specialist. He proudly helps companies to implement ADA. They welcome his wisdom and knowledge, and he counsels them on what they need to do to be compliant. He is well known in the disability community as a disability advocate. As a result of Dwight's service, many people with disabilities are active, productive members of their communities. Says Dwight: “There are no guaranties in life, and it can change on a dime. All I know is that you have to face things head on, put them in the best possible light, and help others every chance you get.”
Because of Dwight’s service, in 2010 he was selected for a “Spirit of Service” Award, hosted by Al Roker. In 2011 and in 2017, he was given the Cabot Community Celebrity award. Each above of those awards are national awards given annually for people that excel in volunteer service. In recent years, he has received numerous local and national awards for his service.
Dwight remains active nationally on the speaking circuit. He is also known for his inspirational memoir, “Still Standing.” The book has inspired and given hope to many people. Dwight also writes a weekly blog for empowerment. In addition, he continues to be a disability advocate and more. Twelve years ago, Dwight married Tamika, the love of his life, and the couple had their first child, Brailey Samara Owens, on 12/12/12. Dwight says, “God has a plan for all of us, and we all have challenges to face. He also gives us the strength and resources to overcome those challenges.”
You can learn more about Dwight and his ongoing journey at www.StillStandingWithDwight.com.
