What would you feel, and how would you face life if you became a quadriplegic? John Norton, a YouTuber living in Connecticut, was diagnosed as a quadriplegic after an accident. He also struggled with depression and had a history of substance addiction. However, over the past seven years, he’s embraced a healthier lifestyle, quit smoking, overcame his addiction, and now shares his daily life, fitness routines, strategies for overcoming depression, and outlook on life and challenges through his videos.

“I experienced a spinal cord injury in 2010, resulting in a quadriplegic diagnosis. I don’t want to define myself by that,” John says. He hopes to use his positive attitude to show others who might be at a low point or facing similar challenges that it’s possible to find happiness in stressful situations and overcome depression. “I’m just showing how to be positive in a stressful situation, how to have purpose. Basically, I just want to help others succeed in life,” John adds.

In the years immediately following his diagnosis, life was incredibly difficult for John. He couldn’t walk, move, stand, or get around independently. He relied on a wheelchair, a bed, or other people to help with daily activities. Even basic needs like dressing, eating, bathing, and using the bathroom required assistance from others or special equipment.

Beyond the physical obstacles, the psychological challenges were even more daunting. Faced with sudden physical limitations, John experienced an overwhelming sense of loss and a surreal disconnect from his previous life. He fell into depression, struggled to engage in social activities, and felt the crushing weight of social isolation and loneliness.

During that time, John was in desperate need of redefining his life’s goals and purpose, a process that proved to be long and difficult.

“Life is short; we all have to learn to move on.” Fortunately, after years of physical and mental torment, John decided to look forward. He started working out again, rediscovering the long-lost sensation of tight muscles and a racing heartbeat. He began reading, finding inner peace and inspiration in books. He started traveling and is truly living again. Encouraged by others’ stories, he began sharing his own life online, hoping to help people like him. His impact has reached far beyond just his followers.

Around this time, VOCIC was searching for a confident, courageous influencer who embraced life positively to represent the brand’s mission—helping users regain independence and mobility. They discovered John. The marketing team quickly reached out to him via email, realizing he was a great fit for the VOCIC V53 electric lightweight wheelchair. Shortly after sending him the product, VOCIC received his honest feedback.

He first tested the V53 wheelchair’s versatility: “It can go over various terrains,” John said. He tested it on trails, around a lake, and in the city, noting, “It works excellent in all situations.” The chair’s performance left a strong impression on John.

“It’s really easy to fold. There’s a little tab in the back, and then it just folds right up—it can fit in the trunk of a car,” John explained in his video. The V53’s size was perfect for fitting into a vehicle with the help of a ramp, and there were almost no issues. “The stability is really good, and it seems to have quite a bit of weight at the bottom, so I had no problems with tipping back or anything like that when getting in the van. I then took the chair on a trail,” John added.

Finally, John summarized the V53 wheelchair’s pros, he said:

• Well-built: “It’s got great speed. It’s well-built because I noticed that the welds on the chair are really good,” he said.
• Comfortable backrest: John also appreciated the V53’s backrest. “It’s got a quality back, and the back is comfortable,” he said after sitting in the chair for an extended period.
• Long range: “It’s got a quality joystick and shocks, which make the ride easier. It holds a good charge, and it has the option to hold two batteries. It comes with one, but you could put two in there so you can go further,” John added.

Overall, John is genuinely grateful and thinks the chair is very versatile and cool. “If you’re interested in something like this, I definitely recommend it,” John said.

The VOCIC V53 wheelchair is becoming an integral part of John Norton’s life, making his outings easier and his life richer.

You can also check out John's video below. “VOCIC Folding Power Wheelchair!? My Quadriplegic Review" for more details.

“There is only one heroism in the world: to see the world as it is and to love it.” -Romain Rolland

As Romain Rolland said, true heroism isn’t about defeating enemies or achieving great feats; it’s about facing the hardships, pain, and harsh realities of life, and after recognizing these truths, still choosing to face life positively and continue to love it. John has done that. More importantly, John is using his story to encourage many people, like him, to strive to make the world a better place.

If you, like John, are suffering from illness or going through a tough time in life, perhaps John’s story can offer some help. Just like the belief he shares with others: “Go health yourself; stay strong and active.”

Life is indeed short, and we only live once. VOCIC also believes that there’s always a way to solve problems, as long as you’re willing to take the first step toward change and reach out to those who care about you. VOCIC will always be there to support you, just like the VOCIC V53 wheelchair did for John.