At TTN, we have the privilege of working with incredible patients who demonstrate resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to their recovery. One such individual is Wayne Wallace. After a devastating bicycle accident on April 5, 2021, left him with multiple fractures and injuries, Wayne faced a long and difficult road to recovery. Over the past three years, he worked with four different physical therapists and a strength coach to regain his strength, mobility, and endurance.
Wayne’s recovery journey wasn’t just about healing physically—it was about regaining his strength, confidence, and passion for life. Throughout this process, he found immense support from the team at TTN, and one therapist in particular played a key role in his recovery. Wayne credits much of his progress to Sam Lawrence, PT, DPT, Cert. DN, who worked with him at the Hague Medical Center location.
“Sam was the last and my favorite—but don’t tell the others!” Wayne joked, showing the camaraderie he felt with his therapists. He explained how Sam’s program focused specifically on strengthening his shoulder and neck, which had been significant areas of concern after his accident.
“The program Sam came up with strengthened my shoulder and neck area, and he helped me realize I needed to improve my posture, which relieved the pain and nerve discomfort I was experiencing,” Wayne wrote, highlighting the lasting benefits of the tailored treatment plan.
But Wayne’s journey didn’t end with the sessions at TTN. He continued working on his recovery even outside the clinic. “Sam also gave me homework,” Wayne said, adding how those exercises have become a daily routine for him. “The exercises he showed me, I still do at home on a daily basis, and they keep me going. I am forever grateful for the things Sam taught me as I progressed.”
These lessons and the support from his therapists were instrumental in Wayne’s journey, bringing him closer to his ultimate goal: returning to cycling and giving back to the causes close to his heart. His journey wasn’t just about healing—it was about reclaiming his passion. Now, Wayne is actively making that dream a reality by embarking on a cross-country bike ride from San Diego, CA, to St. Augustine, FL. Beginning on March 8, 2025, he will cover an astonishing 3,000 miles over nearly two months. This ride is more than a personal achievement; it’s a mission to give back, as Wayne uses this journey to raise funds for the Wounded Warrior Project and the Coast Guard Foundation—two organizations deeply meaningful to him.
Wayne’s passion for supporting veterans stems from his 27-year career in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he spent 13 years at sea as a permanent Cutterman. His time in service fostered a deep sense of camaraderie, and he has dedicated himself to helping fellow veterans who face physical and emotional challenges.
This cross-country ride is not Wayne’s first charitable endeavor. Over the years, he has participated in multiple long-distance cycling events to support causes such as underprivileged children, Alzheimer’s research, and veterans’ assistance. Despite the challenges he has faced—including his near life-altering accident—Wayne remains committed to using his passion for cycling as a way to make a difference.
If you feel inspired to support Wayne on his journey, donations are welcome to help him achieve his mission. He plans to share 40% of the funds raised with The Coast Guard Foundation, 40% with the Wounded Warrior Project, and 20% will go toward expenses incurred during the ride. Contributions can be made via Venmo: Wayne_Wallace99 or PayPal: [email protected]. Please include “Wayne’s Epic Bike Ride” in the comment line along with a cheer to encourage Wayne during his incredible journey.
We at TTN are incredibly proud to have played a role in Wayne’s recovery and to have supported him in his journey back to the sport he loves. His determination to overcome obstacles and his dedication to giving back are truly inspiring. We will be cheering him on every mile of the way as he pedals across the country, knowing that each turn of his wheels brings support and hope to veterans in need.
Wayne, you are an inspiration, and we can’t wait to see you cross that finish line with your front tire dipping into the Atlantic Ocean. Ride strong—we’re with you all the way!
