Neshard Walker is a former professional basketball player, who also happens to have cerebral palsy. He overcame both physical and mental challenges to achieve his goals and now helps others achieve theirs. And he’s not done yet. Walker has even more ambitions and aspirations, which include inspiring anyone facing adversity.
Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at Birth
Neshard Walker was born with cerebral palsy. He was delivered by emergency Cesarean section because the umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck. This limited oxygen to his brain for a period of time, causing brain damage.
As a result of the birth injury, Walker had mobility issues, particularly in his right side. He went through physical therapy and strength training to regain mobility. He worked hard to be able to talk, walk, and use his hands.
Growing up with a disability from such a young age took a mental toll on Walker. Working hard to not only overcome his disabilities but also become a professional athlete required great physical and mental strength. This is what inspired him to eventually become a mental health coach working with others.
From Disabled to Pro Athlete
Walker played basketball professionally for years, up until the 2019 to 2020 season. Getting there was a remarkable achievement. Walker credits his mother, but he also put in a lot of hard work that required patience. His mother helped him see the bigger picture and that small, daily progress would eventually add up to big results.
It took physical effort but also a lot of mental toughness to reach his goals. Walker remembers being in physical therapy and seeing other kids get frustrated and want to quit. He vowed not to be someone who gives up. These early experiences propelled him throughout his life to achieve important goals, including a successful career as a professional player in the NBA and for foreign teams.
Mental Health Performance Coach
Walker now works as a mental health performance coach, helping athletes and non-athletes alike. He works with people to help them reach their full potential by addressing mental health.
Walker transitioned from sports to mental health and coaching because, although he was gifted at basketball, his real passion was people. The COVID pandemic sent him home from playing overseas, but he saw it as an opportunity and decided to launch a new career doing something he could really feel good about.
His first post-basketball job involved working with kids at a summer camp. This was where he realized he could help people with performance from a mental health perspective. Walker now works as a performance coach, helping young people and adults build confidence and overcome obstacles.
His background is in athletics, but Walker applies his expertise to a variety of situations and clients. He even worked with a man over 100 years old who benefited from coaching to improve his mobility.
Neshard Walker has already achieved a lot, but he isn’t done yet. He still has goals to achieve and ambitious plans, including acting, traveling, and continuing to help and inspire others.
Walker’s advice and inspiration is particularly important for young people because he knows what they’re going through. He wants kids with limitations to remember that they are not alone and that they can be the ones to make positive changes in their own lives.
