From Patient to Powerlifter: Former Patient Uses Passion to Give Back to Shriners Children's Lexington

Born with hereditary bilateral clubfoot, Zack faced challenges from his earliest days.

His family was unable to afford any sort of treatment but found hope and help through Shriners Children's Lexington, where he went on to receive life-changing care. By the time he was just 6 months old, Zack had undergone surgery at the medical center. From there, his grandparents would travel from Tennessee to take Zack to Lexington for treatment over the years.

Initially, Zack was in casts until he was 4 years old. This led to Zack’s upper body being overdeveloped as an infant and his lower body underdeveloped throughout his youth.

“The scars are still there,” Zack said about his surgery. “I've got pretty noticeable scars on my feet, but that journey started with Shriners and has led to the extravagant, wonderful life I've been able to live today.”

Now 30, Zack knew he wanted to give back somehow. He decided to organize his first-ever powerlifting event to raise money for Shriners Children’s Lexington – the very place where the dedicated medical staff helped him gain the ability to walk, run and chase his dreams.

“Without Shriners Children's Lexington giving me the ability to walk, I would not be able to do anything I love to do – hiking, traveling, being hands-on at work or doing the sport I love, which is powerlifting,” Zack said.

Finding Strength Through Adversity

Growing up in Middle Tennessee, Zack’s early life was far from easy. Facing extreme poverty and attending 14 different schools before high school graduation, he found solace and purpose through physical strength.

At 18, he scraped together funds for a gym membership, beginning what would become a transformative journey. It was at that gym where Zack met one of his best friends, who introduced him to powerlifting. “He came over, and he asked if I powerlift,” Zack said. “I told him I didn't. And then that's how that journey started.”

Through lifting, Zack learned not to let anything hold him back. Instead, he turned his differences into his greatest strength. “I think it simply comes down to two things,” Zack said. “You can become a victim – adopt a victim mentality – or you can take advantage of the situation and be grateful.”

But what started as a personal journey toward better health quickly evolved into a lifelong passion.

“I just enjoyed the journey of strength,” Zack said. “You can learn so much about yourself – discipline, motivation and overcoming adversity – it teaches you how to conquer challenges.”

So far, Zack has competed in six powerlifting competitions, becoming a pro-level lifter and joining the board of directors for a powerlifting federation. Hosting his own competition was the next logical step – and a chance to give back to the organization that had given him so much.

“I know some of the best people in my life now just because we all put a barbell in our hands,” Zack said. “That love and passion inspired me to give back. I wanted to put on a competition for the lifters, by the lifters.”

A Powerlifting Event With Purpose

On January 18, 2025, Zack hosted his first powerlifting competition in Middle Tennessee.

What began as a small idea quickly grew into a major success, selling out with 50 competitors and more than 200 spectators. “We had people lined up through the hallway trying to get in,” Zack said.

Lifters traveled from across the U.S. and even Canada to be a part of the event. “I was in such a blissful state the whole day,” Zack said. “It was a beautiful community giveback.”

Zack’s goal was simple: create an unforgettable competition experience while raising money for Shriners Children’s Lexington. After covering costs, the event raised over $1,700, a testament to the love and support within the powerlifting community.

While organizing the event came with its challenges, Zack said the decision to combine his passion for powerlifting with supporting Shriners Children’s was easy. “If you love it, and you do it long enough, you’ll find a way to give back,” Zack said. “Whether that’s giving someone your time, whether it’s monetary, giving back in your community, or spreading the word.”

The Journey From Patient to Shriner

Zack said he wouldn’t be the person he is today without Shriners Children’s Lexington and the care he received. Without it, he believes he might be in a wheelchair today.

Owning a home, working, caring for his family and enjoying the physical activities he loves might not have been possible, too, he said. “The impact is monumental,” Zack said. “I don't know if I'd be the person I am today or who I would be – and I don't want to imagine what that outcome would have been.”

That’s why Zack’s connection to Shriners Children’s didn’t end with his treatment.

Inspired by the impact Shriners Children's had on his life, Zack first became a Mason at a Sam Davis lodge, then became a Shriner himself in 2022, joining the Al Menah Chapter based in Nashville, Tennessee. The process was deeply meaningful, he said, supported by close friends who helped him through every step.

“There is not a day I do not thank God and the Shriners for this tremendous gift,” Zack said. “Gratitude for the life they have enabled me to live is something words cannot truly describe.”

Looking Ahead

Zack plans to host another powerlifting event next year, aiming to raise even more funds and sell out the venue again.

He hopes his journey from patient to powerlifter, and now as a Shriner giving back, inspires others to embrace resilience, gratitude and the power of community.

“Don't let anything stop you,” Zack said. “There's no reason you can't do something you want to do. If you care about it, you can make it happen.”