Chris Ruzzin: A Difference Maker In The Community

SOUTHFIELD (WWJ) - Chris Ruzzin of Southfield was born with a disability which he was able to overcome, but nine years ago he was in a car accident which left him in a wheel chair.

"I never knew what my life was gonna be like from that point forward," Ruzzin told WWJ Newsradio 950's Marie Osborne. "I think that I was gonna be pretty much bound to a wheelchair and bound to the house and/or a nursing home. Little did I know that I would regain some of the feeling in my legs."

Ruzzin met one of his biggest challenges at a curb.

"I was traveling in my wheelchair, and I traveled over near the intersection of 12 Mile and Greenfield, and I notice on the east side of Greenfield that the corners did not have any curb cut ramps," he said

Ruzzin fought for three years to get the curbs cut so they'd be accessible to everyone. This year he succeeded.

"And now there are four new curb-cut ramps to accommodate, not only myself, by any other individual who is in a wheelchair or using a walker or a cane, that can safely be able to travel that intersection."

Ruzzin has since helped get curbs cut at 12 and Woodward Ave. He said his long fight taught him to never accept no.

Chris Ruzzin is WWJ Newsradio 950's 'Difference Maker' for August.

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Do you know someone in your community that has made a difference to benefit others? WWJ Newsradio 950 is seeking out individuals who are making a difference, big or small - people who have inspired positive change and those who have made an impact in the community.

Each month, WWJ will honor a person as the Difference Maker in the Community.  This person will be highlighted on-air and on cbsdetroit.com for their positive contributions.  All monthly Difference Makers will be invited to join at a special luncheon in the spring of 2013 to recognize the positive contributions.

Click here to nominate someone you know.

WWJ Newsradio 950 Difference Maker in the Community program is presented by Baker Tilly Accountants and Advisors and sponsored in part by Family Heating, Cooling & Electrical.