A robber in late 2011 stole much from Upper Chichester’s Kevin Neary — the use of his arms and legs, his natural breathing, and normal organ functions, to name a few. But the man who shot him couldn’t take Neary’s zeal for life.

The 33-year-old former health care recruiter fills his days with dreams of returning to graduate school to study sports management, plans for his brothers’ weddings, and anticipation of the fourth annual Friends of Kevin Neary Golf Outing. The event raises funds to help pay for his home health aides, medical equipment, and transportation. This year’s outing is scheduled for Sept. 12 at the Wyncote Golf Club in Oxford, according to a Daily Times feature by Patti Mengers.

“I think he is a whole lot stronger than even I can give him credit for,” his father, Joseph Neary, said in the article. “It’s not a bed of roses, but he remains smart, funny, gracious, and upbeat. It has been four and a half years this week, and people often ask for him and tell me he is an inspiration to them.”

And Neary’s dedication to life is mirrored by his extended family’s support of him.

“He is amazing — a great person, a great son, a great brother, a great nephew, a great cousin, a great friend,” aunt Denise Kelly said. “He is always up for fun — loves Philly sports, going to the casino, going out for a beer. No matter what, we count on Kevin to make our lives better and more fun.”

Click here to read more about Neary’s story in the Daily Times.