Whether I’m inspiring people to change their lives, or helping them access recovery resources through my foundation, my purpose is to help others overcome any challenge they face. Life isn’t about getting knocked down – it’s about getting back up. Stand in the face of adversity. Stand for an idea. Stand to empower the world.

Chris 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 stage at his college graduation with his fiancé, Emily Summers. The video went viral twice, garnered 300 million+ views, and caught the eye of the country’s top media outlets (Good Morning, America, TodayShow.com, NBC Nightly News, CBS, USA Today, Sports Illustrated, etc.).

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. As with his Graduation Walk, Chris prepared relentlessly, spending four hours per day in the gym. 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 numerous events across the country. He was named to the ITA Group’s Hottest Keynote Speakers List, alongside Michael Strahan, Magic Johnson and Mark Cuban. 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. Additionally, Chris has written a book; he and Emily are working on their second book; and a documentary is being made about them.

Chris’ story is now on Prime Video and AppleTV! “The world watched as I took ten impossible steps on my college graduation day. That was just my beginning. 7 Yards: The Chris Norton Story shares my story of how I battled unbelievable odds with a faithful determination to discover that life’s lowest moments can be our greatest gifts. This film will redefine your outlook on how to overcome adversity with strength and resilience, but also the importance of family and friends. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that we all have the Power to Stand.”