Christian Budney: Ready for Adventure

If you ask Christian Budney to describe himself in one word, he would say ‘adventurous.’ After all, he has gone sky diving once and can’t wait to do it again! Christian loves to travel and doesn’t back down from a challenge.

Born and raised in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Christian was an avid snowboarder. In March 2006, when he was 17 years old, Christian broke his C5 vertebrae while performing a snowboarding trick he had done many times before. Though his life drastically changed, Christian didn’t let his accident keep him from achieving his goals. He obtained both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work and is a state-licensed social worker, interacting daily with individuals who have autism.

Christian uses the 4Front® Power Chair to assist him in his daily life. In addition to helping him get around, Christian uses the power adjustable safe seat elevation at work.

“I often use the safe seat elevation if I need to teach a class and speak with co-workers and peers. Plus, when socializing, it’s always nice to be face to face with my friends.”

His disability hasn’t subdued Christian’s love for cold weather sports in the slightest. He has a huge passion for adaptive skiing.

“The second we get some cold weather and snow, I get antsy to get out on the slopes,” Christian said.

The 4Front suits Christian’s adventurous lifestyle.

“I love the suspension on my 4Front Power Chair. My chair can go over rocky terrain so easily and smoothly. The adjustable safe seat elevation is awesome, too!”

In between work and winter sports, Christian is a member of the NEPA chapter of the United Spinal Association. He has traveled to Washington, D.C. many times to lobby and advocate for laws to help people with disabilities. Working with young adults with disabilities every day in his job also gives Christian a unique perspective.

“I look for inspiration in others and many of their stories inspire me,” Christian said.