The only difference between this teenager and others is that Patrick Ivison needs a wheelchair—and that's it, or so he says.

But to others, Ivison's determination and ability to inspire others at an early age is what sets him apart.

Ivison, who sustained a spinal cord injury when he was just 14 months old, said he "quickly decided to focus on my abilities rather than my disability."

Ivison is the ambassador for the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation's Life Rolls On, a group devoted to improving the quality of life for those affected by spinal cord injuries. He's also committed to adaptive surfing and has participated in the U.S. Open of Surfing for the past five years.

Moreover, the 17-year-old is a motivational speaker and has appeared on a number of shows and in a movie titled Charlie Don't Surf.

Ivison, who says he is inspired by his mother, said his biggest accomplishment is advocating for a federal law.

"I am most proud of is being asked and sponsored to fly to Washington, D.C., to testify about a law that would require all new vehicles to have a back-up rearview camera," he said. "I was hit by a car that was backing up, and I had the opportunity to share my story and to honor the children who did not survive their similar injuries."

Advice for young people:

"Find your passion and never set limits on yourself and your abilities."