A young Bridgeport man has overcome a severe disability to earn a spot at the International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Youth World Games in Ireland.

Debrandson Davidson, 21, thought his life was over in 2014 when he contracted a neurological condition that left him paralyzed from the waist down.

"I have a very rare spinal cord injury called transver mylitis," Davidson told News 12.

At the age of 17, the high school football star suddenly found himself confined to a wheelchair. Over time, he rebounded and would go on to become one of the highest ranked wheelchair athletes in America, excelling in wheelchair basketball and track & field.

"In Ireland, I'm looking forward to medaling and bringing back the medal to Connecticut," he said.

Davidson was honored Saturday morning by state and local leaders for his courage in the face of adversity and for his athletic excellence.

Mayor Joe Ganim said Davidson is much more than a role model for young people.

“His courage and his perseverance is a demonstration of inspiration for all of us," said the mayor.

Davidson attended a Hip Hop Expression of Black History in Bridgeport last month, where he met Kingsley Osei of Connecticut Against Violence. Osei is now promoting a fundraiser to help Davidson raise enough money to take part in the World Games.

Supporters say Davidson will compete at the World Games only if he raises enough money to get there.