Brad with Darth Vader - it took a crew of people over one hour to inflate!
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a world-renowned attraction and destination for kids of all ages. For more than three decades, the first week in October brings the smell of roasting chiles and the beautiful, magical moving picture show of hot air balloons sailing silently through the crisp fall air.
The Middle Bee is Michael Glen, 35, took his first hot air balloon ride at 2 weeks old, safely cradled in his mom's arms. Growing up in Roswell, N.M., he caught the ballooning bug big time from his parents. Nothing beats seeing the majestic Southwest from a soundless, floating basket.But at 21, his dreams were temporarily grounded. His car rolled over, sending Glen — who wasn't wearing a seat belt — flying out the window. He was left paralyzed from the waist down.
Glen believed his wheelchair was irrelevant. So he took to the skies and logged 24 hours of flight time, more than double the amount required for a license.
He became the world's first and only paraplegic hot air balloon pilot in April 2006, and now he launches his rainbow-colored balloon "Elevation II" around the country, as an inspiration for all. "I wanted to achieve my dream," he said. "I'm the only [paraplegic] guy in the world who can do it. I decided to do good with that, trying to spread my message about reaching goals, achieving dreams and seat belt safety."
For more pictures see the slideshow on the side of the blog!
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