DISABLED REALTORS -- part 4

Overcoming the Odds and Getting the Job Done Selling properties has also been Cal Williams’ calling for the last 32 years. An on-site agent for Beazer Homes in the St. Augustine area, Williams’ career was put on hold 14 years ago when he suffered a stroke. The stroke’s immediate effects rendered Williams totally paralyzed on his right side and without the ability to speak. He went through 21 hours of brain surgery and two years of rehabilitation. “During rehab, I was told I’d never be able to work again,” said Williams. But Williams worked hard to prove them wrong. Today, the residual effects of the stroke are a pronounced limp and short-term memory impairment. Fortunately, his employer at the time of his illness was very understanding about his situation. “I told them ‘you’ll probably not want me back.’ They replied ‘let us be the judge of that,’” Williams said. He went back part-time, then transitioned back to full-time. From the time of the stroke until he returned to full-time work, three years had passed. His greatest challenge returning to work was remembering important things necessary to assist clients in purchasing homes.