Competing in swimming and water polo from middle school through college, Isaiah grew up deeply connected to the water. He played for multiple clubs—including United, Shore, and Chargers water polo clubs — and competed for Los Alamitos High School and Cypress College. Isaiah spent his summers lifeguarding at Seal Beach, eventually becoming a junior lifeguard instructor. On June 27, 2025, after a long day of teaching, he dove into the ocean and sustained a C5 SCI. The accident left him paralyzed from the chest down with limited core strength and weakened triceps.

Recovery required adjusting to significant physical changes and relying on loved ones for daily care. The support provided from his parents, girlfriend, and friends with tasks that once felt routine help him stay encouraged and grounded. He’s confident he’s going to keep improving, healing, and succeed through the trauma by remaining focused on rebuilding strength, regaining independence, and continuing his education. Isaiah will study economics at UCLA starting in the fall.

Today he continues weightlifting, “different but I still enjoy it,” and physical therapy, and stays connected to sports through watching football, basketball, soccer, and mixed martial arts.