The Fundraising Page of Michael Bradley

I was born with keratoconus, a progressive disease that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape. As the condition worsens, vision becomes distorted with blurs, streaks, halos, and double images. By the 9th grade, I was legally blind. Despite this challenge, I played varsity sports in high school. Athletics taught me discipline, courage, and how to push past limitations others could not see. After graduation, I enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Although I was later honorably discharged due to worsening vision, the Marine Corps strengthened my resolve to keep moving forward. I later entered college to play college football, but during my athletic physical, I failed my eye exam. As a result, I was sent to Birmingham to undergo an evaluation. After 5 minutes, I was diagnosed and given choices; skip the surgery and play ball or have the surgery and possibly have great vision for once. Unfortunately, my collegiate athletic career ended before it began—but that loss opened the door to life-changing treatment. I received the first of three cornea transplants shortly afterward. These gifts—given through organ and tissue donation— restored not only my eyesight but my future. Today, as the owner of The Physique Dr. Personal Training Boutique, I help others improve their health, strength, and confidence. I also proudly advocate for Team Louisiana and the Transplant Games of America, honoring the donors who gave me the gift of sight and a second chance at life.