In 2005, at age 33, Reinfried was diagnosed with spinal cancer. In 2006 he underwent major surgery to remove the tumor. The damage to his spine left him wheelchair bound for nearly 9 months. Afterwards he was still dependant on a walker or crutches to move around. After reading one of Master Mantak Chia's books on the healing power of chi, Reinfried decided to come to Tao Garden for rehabilitation. He began his treatment at the begining of 2007. After several weeks he had dramatically improved his ability to walk on his own, without total dependence on his crutches. Watch this brief video to hear Reinfried's inspirational story in his own words.