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Two years ago, Tara’s life changed in an instant. Pulling down a 125lb gate at work, she turned her head, heard a pop, and felt the worst pain of her life. That pop led to three herniated discs, nerve damage and a two-level cervical fusion.

“I was so happy when my doctor told me I could go back to work,” Tara says. “But I didn’t know where to start.” That’s where StepUp Wilmington came in: “I learned how to interview, how to be honest about some of the questions, such as physical limitations. I have a 20lb weight restriction. I’m not supposed to climb a ladder. I thought it was going to be a huge deal, but it’s not.”

Land Rover didn’t see limitations when they met Tara. They saw work ethic and drive. Last week, she was hired as a Service Advisor: “A lot of their customer base is female. I look forward to empowering women with the knowledge of how their vehicle works. Because it’s more than transportation. It’s freedom.”

What does the job mean to Tara? “This is the start of things looking up. I’m not defined by my injury anymore. I’m ready to start living my life again, to take care of myself and my family. My daughter is a junior in high school, and now I can support her as she enters this next phase of her life.”

“Just because something happens, it doesn’t dictate the rest of your life.”

If you or someone you know is looking for employment or a better job, give us a call at (910)343-8469.