Perspectives - Text Only

Perspectives

Chris: Crestar Bank, an affiliate of Sun Trust

It took Chris Harman seven years to get his life together after an accident, which resulted in a spinal cord injury. He remembers the day that his doctor told him he could go "up or down" and he needed to make that choice. On that day, Chris decided to go "up." He said that talk gave him the motivation to pursue employment and a career.

Today, Chris works for Crestar Bank, an affiliate of Sun Trust, as a banking specialist. When account holders need information regarding their bank accounts, they can call an 800 number to get answers to their questions. It is Chris' responsibility to answer the customers' questions, fix small problems, or connect the customer with the right person within the bank.

Due to Chris' disability, he needed some revisions made to his work station. Crestar paid for accommodations, which totaled less than $100. Since Chris uses a wheelchair, he needed his desk raised. In addition, he needed a track ball mouse and a pencil with a foam grip to access his computer, due to the limited use of his hands and fingers. Chris says that his life has changed dramatically since he began working. He has more confidence and is proud of his accomplishments.

"If I were talking to someone who had just been injured yesterday, I would tell them not to be afraid to take risks. You will never know what you are capable of accomplishing if you don't take risks."