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May 12, 2010

Walter Catton was riding his bike preparing for an Ironman triathalon when he was struck by car. A little over a year later, after doctors told him he may not walk by 2010, he is getting ready to run in the River Run 25K, reports MLive.com

Catton lived an active lifestyle. He trained for many athletic events in between running a security company and helping raise six children with his wife Kim.

That day he was struck by a car left him with many injuries including two broken legs, a fractured wrist, elbow and shoulder, his jaw split in half and his bottom teeth knocked out, reports the news provider.

"I had over 20 surgeries," Catton told the news source. "I spent 28 days at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital, 121 days at Mary Free Bed (Rehabilitation Hospital), then 40 days in a chair and doing bed rest. I finally put my feet on the ground 80 days after the accident."

Catton endured months of tough physical therapy but has come out of this incident ready to pickup where he left off. He even forgave the driver who hit him.

Those that are injured in car accidents may experience anxiety and depression. Seeing a therapist or joining a support group may enable survivors to thrive and talk through their experience with those who understand.

Oftentimes accidents like the one Catton experienced might result in paralysis or even death. There are many resources available for individuals who have been affected by an auto accident and their families. The Crash Survivors Network works to help victims overcome physical and emotional injuries.

The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation conducted a study in which they found that 1 in 50 people are living with paralysis. The organization offers resources on paralysis as well as funds research to cure the condition.

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