Chris Norton(XVII)
- Actor
Chris Norton is a former American football defensive back who played Division III football for the Luther College Norse. His football career ended in 2010 when he became paralyzed while making a tackle during a kick off in a game against Central College. He was given a 3% chance of ever regaining movement below the neck but has continued to recover some sensation and mobility throughout his body-including his hands, legs, feet and torso. With the support of his friends, family, faith, and the love of his life, Emily, Chris proved the doctors wrong, and walked the stage at graduation that went viral worldwide. Then walked his bride, Emily, 7 yards down the aisle of their wedding. They are foster parents and have adopted 5 children.
His story has been published twice - first with his father, and now with Emily. Plus, a documentary about his life story is out on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and AppleTV titled 7 Yards: Chris Norton Story
Chris 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. Today he lives in Florida with his wife and 5 kids where he manages his non-profit foundation and works full-time as a motivational speaker and actor.