Nathaniel Bear

I was born in a motel in northern Minnesota. My father was a painter and my mother taught PE (Physical Education) in public schools. I have two younger brothers and my family lived on welfare while moving from town to town (almost) every year in search of work. During my formative years I decided that I would not continue in that socioeconomic status as an adult. I excelled in school and, even as a child, had extensive plans for my life. I remember wanting to be an astronaut like many little boys though I exhibited an initiative and motivational difference " I went to the local library, checked out and read the operations manuals for the space shuttle; over and over. Persistence is the key to success. I achieved the Eagle Scout Rank in the Boy Scouts, graduated high school in the top 10%, NHS. I was a member of the marching band, choir, gymnastics, Latin club, Rotoract and UIL Interact. Despite several scholarships and offers coming out of high school, I decided to join the military. I knew I was not ready for college. I was in the US Navy until 2001, I was CEO of an advertising company for 5 years after that, then served as Vice President of an established accounting firm for 2 years. In 2008 I was COO with an operating interest in a Tech-Service Company. I was living an American Dream with a beautiful wife and a bright, promising future. In October of that year I was in a car accident (rear-ended by a drunk driver) that left me mentally and physically disabled with joint, bone and brain damage. I spent most of the next year in therapy but there has been no prognosis for a full recovery. During this time I lost my job and my wife. I decided to go back to school at the end of 2009 since I couldn't return to my previous profession. I told myself that I would not let these obstacles limit my future. I am Iron Man...