Alva Review-Courier -

HARMONY, Minn. (AP) — When John Whalen began experiencing numbness in his legs nine years ago, he thought it might be due to an earlier back surgery.

However, tests showed a blockage and doctors recommended surgery to remove a tumor on his spinal cord, AgriNews reported .

Removal of the tumor, which was benign, did not reverse the paralysis. Doctors said he wouldn't walk again.

Physical therapy and time helped Whalen regain some movement in his thighs, but he cannot walk and spends much of his time in one of two wheelchairs.

Receiving that prognosis might have been a game changer for some, par...