Walter B. Jones: “I rise tonight to share the story of a truly remarkable American. While I was back in eastern North Carolina during the…”

“I rise tonight to share the story of a truly remarkable American. While I was back in eastern North Carolina during the month of August, I had the great fortune to make the acquaintance of Minnie Elizabeth Harper. Minnie Harper was born and raised in eastern North Carolina. A product of a loving and caring family, Minnie Harper is a 1974 honor graduate of Greene Central High School who has always been very active in her church and in her community. Even at a very young age, Minnie Harper was a role model to all who knew her. She was on a direct path to success. Sadly, in June 1975, a terrible automobile accident left Minnie Harper a C-5 quadriplegic, but she did not let it lead her off her path to success. Such an accident may have hampered the dreams and broken the spirit of most people, but not Minnie Harper. In her own words, Minnie Harper stated, and I quote, ``I am not a failure. My parents did not raise any failures. My handicap has not totally impeded my dreams and goals; it has just altered the path and encouraged me to push forward.''”