Chris Norton shows us the power of stand
Chris Norton suffered a spinal cord injury while playing football at Luther College (Iowa). The doctors gave Chris a 3% chance of moving anything below his neck again. Four years later, he defied the odds and walked across the stage at his college graduation with his fiancé, Emily Summers.
Three years later, Chris attempted another incredible feat – this time, perhaps the most important walk of his life – down the aisle with his wife, Emily. Chris and Emily joyfully conquered the challenge – and walked seven yards down the aisle after their wedding ceremony. Seven yards symbolized the seven-year anniversary of his injury. Their beautiful story once again captured the heart of the world, with coverage ranging from nearly all of the top-tier U.S. media outlets to media in Germany, Italy, and London, to name a few.
Chris is a well-respected motivational speaker and speaks at events all across the country. Chris’ message focuses on the fact that we all face challenges, but our circumstances don’t define us – we do. With inspiring anecdotes and positive action steps, Chris connects with his audience in a genuine, entertaining, and impactful way. His message resonates with all of us: adversity is universal, but we all have the Power to Stand.
He thought about his stay at the Mayo Clinic and years of ongoing therapy, he has seen far too many good people go without the necessary therapy equipment and assistance to achieve their recovery goals. People without the luxury of adequate insurance policies, quitting only because they couldn’t afford to recover. That’s not right. So he decided to make a stand.
He started the Chris Norton Foundation to help people with neuromuscular injuries and disabilities overcome their obstacles, and live better lives like he was able to. In addition, his organization started the Chris Norton Foundation Wheelchair Camp, a free family camp for all abilities. The organization is a nonprofit working to become a national foundation and change the lives of people with spinal cord issues, so they can change their own.
Chris and Emily have adopted five beautiful girls and have fostered 17 children. They are both deeply committed to providing a safe, loving home for children in need. They are truly a remarkable couple, who positively impact those around them.
Sources:
- https://youtu.be/mXXYf20cX1c
- https://www.speakernow.com/chris-norton-speaker/
- https://chrisnorton.org/about/
- https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/chris-norton-emily-norton-seven-longest-yards-book-foster-parents
- https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/family/story/paralyzed-football-players-walk-aisle-start-couples-journey-64113617
- http://www.fromtexttospeech.com/