Imagine receiving the call that your son has been in a horrific diving accident, and soon learning that he is paralyzed. That’s exactly what happened to one local family when their son hit his head on a rock in the James River. This is all too real for these Richmond parents.
And this is a Christmas that Cole Sydnor and his family will never forget — being home for the holidays is truly Christmas magic!
You may remember our post in September of this year about Cole Sydnor, a young high school student who was paralyzed in a diving accident on the James River. Cole and his family have spent the past few months in an Atlanta rehab facility where he has struggled to begin a new life being paralyzed — over 130 days.
A tearful and jubilant crowd gathered at Atlee High School in Hanover this week to welcome Cole back home after months away. The excitement and joy of the teachers, students and their parents was overwhelming and Cole thanked them for all they have done to assist in his recovery. Probably one of the most touching moments was when he thanked his best friend for saving his life.
Cole is a determined and strong young man who shed tears at the sight of so many friends and family. View the video below which was compiled by Cole’s friends with clips of his active life before his accident, the actual accident scene and aftermath, his journey in rehab, and the incredible outreach and support of his dozens of friends. You will be touched and inspired, and you will be brought to tears as you see how this courageous young man is overcoming the biggest challenge of his life.
Thanks to so many selfless and giving people, Cole’s family has been able to retrofit their home to accommodate his need to use a wheelchair and other equipment as he deals with being paralyzed.
Photo Credit: DEAN HOFFMEYER/TIMES-DISPATCH
Merry Christmas Cole – we are all pulling for you!
To learn more or to contribute to Cole, visit the Roll With Cole website where you can follow his progress, learn about fundraisers, and send cards of hope and support.
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