In August 2023, PlayMakers company member Heinley Gaspard experienced a Ventral Transdural Spinal Cord Hernia at the T4 Level which nearly left him paralyzed from the waist down. After undergoing surgery and putting in countless hours of physical therapy, Heinley took on the role of Don John in Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing last fall in a wheelchair. Today, he is proudly playing the leading role of Juicy in Fat Ham with the use of support braces. Heinley is honored to share this triumphant moment in his recovery journey with you.
Heinley expresses his gratitude to those who have supported him through this challenge, including UNC Health, UNC’s Department of Dramatic Art, PlayMakers, his friends, his family, and you, our audience!