Donate

Project Overview

PROJECT: 2012 HERO[series]
LOCATION: Grand Rapids, Michigan

VETERAN: Michael Bell
BRANCH: U.S. Coast Guard
DESIGNER: Seth Herman

VIDEO: Thomas Valdez
PHOTOS: Terry Johnston
PORTRAITS: Adam Bird
VENUE: GRid70
PARTNERS: Threadless

Design Story

"ADAPT AND OVERCOME”

Even after a stroke forever changed his life, U.S. Coast Guard Electrician’s Third Mate Michael Bell maintains an uplifting attitude fueled by the Coast Guard motto, “Always Ready.”

This motto served as the inspiration for his personal motto, “Adapt & Overcome.” His design represents his USCG service with a ship’s wheel that transitions into a bike chain, a symbol of his newly-found passion for cycling. Bike races has become one way Michael has been able to overcome his injury while also inspiring and benefiting others through numerous charity races. Michael’s desire to push on is a reminder that no matter what happens in life, you can adapt and overcome.