Chris’s Story
“Your future will take care of itself when you take care of today.”
Imagine being told you had a 3% chance of ever moving below your neck. Now picture yourself not only defying those odds, but walking down the aisle at your wedding. This is the extraordinary journey of Chris Norton, a former college football player whose life took a dramatic turn after a severe spinal cord injury in 2010.
But Chris didn’t just overcome his own challenges – he turned his struggle into a beacon of hope for millions. His awe-inspiring story of resilience has touched over 400 million hearts worldwide, gracing major news networks and captivating audiences through the award-winning documentary ‘7 Yards’. This powerful film has not only made Netflix’s popular list but has also trended on the platform, bringing Chris’s message of perseverance to an even wider audience.
A bestselling author, Chris has penned two powerful books: “The Power of Faith When Tragedy Strikes” with his father, Terry, and “The Seven Longest Yards” with his wife, Emily. But perhaps his most remarkable achievement lies beyond the pages and screens. Together with Emily, Chris has opened his heart and home to over 23 foster children, five of whom they’ve adopted. And for families grappling with disabilities? Chris founded a free wheelchair camp, proving that his own victory was just the beginning of his mission to uplift others.
From the football field to inspiring millions, Chris Norton’s story isn’t just about physical recovery – it’s about discovering an inner strength that transcends limitations. Chris proves that our greatest power lies not in our muscles, but in our unbreakable spirit. He shows the world that true strength comes from within, capable of transforming lives in ways we never thought possible.
“When people say they can’t, they typically mean they won’t.”
Every person and organization will face adversity, uncertainty, and change. Despite being knocked down, the successful ones find the power to stand back up. They remain resilient and learn how to respond and adapt with intention.
Chris is an accomplished professional speaker who shares his insights with Fortune 500 companies. He was named one of ITA Group’s “Hottest Keynote Speakers.” He travels across the country to inspire people from all walks of life, and demonstrates how to focus on our abilities.
“I refuse to allow what I can’t do to paralyze me from what I can do.”
Chris has witnessed far too many good people go without the necessary therapy equipment and recreational activities to live their best lives. People without the luxury of adequate insurance policies, quitting only because they couldn’t afford to recover. That’s not right. So Chris and his family decided to do something about it.
They started the Chris Norton Foundation to help people with neuromuscular injuries and disabilities overcome their obstacles, and live better lives, like Chris was able to. In addition, they started the Chris Norton Foundation Wheelchair Camp, a free family camp for all abilities. It’s a nonprofit quickly becoming a national foundation, and changing the lives of people with spinal cord issues, so they can change their own.