It was 15 years ago, and she told her son he was going to be somebody. Arneta Williams told 9-year-old Ka’Darian that someday he would find his true calling. She told her son to work hard and keep the faith. The kid they called KD knew in his heart that someday he would impact the world, just like his mama told him.

It was four days ago, and KD Hill walked out of a Birmingham, Alabama gym. The 24-year-old had just finished lifting weights — squats and rows and curls left him sweaty and hungry for more. He looked down to where his right leg used to be, and he felt proud. He felt proud of how far he’s come in 15 months. He felt excited about making his next motivational speech, his new book and his new life. He felt proud that he has found his calling.