We always hear about the crazy stories coming out of Florida, but here’s one that’s sure to warm your heart.
A high school student who was left paralyzed from the waist down last year was determined to walk across the stage during graduation — and he did!
via People:
Kolton Smith, 18, told ABC affiliate WFTS that he was injured in a car crash that happened in June. According to the news outlet, he was ejected from his truck because he wasn’t wearing his seat belt.
“The next thing I know, I was on my back looking at the sky,” he told WFTS. “I thank God every day for letting me stay on this earth.”
Smith, who used to play football at Durant High School and aspired to join the military, now plans on enrolling at Southeastern University and will study business.
“If you have an injury, you can overcome anything you want,” said Smith, who said he didn’t realize that he received a standing ovation when he managed to walk at graduation.
“I was just focused on walking. I looked at my feet. I didn’t even know everyone was standing,” Smith told WFTS.
He added: “When I was on stage and I heard everyone scream when I stood up, I was like, ‘Whoa!’ I just smiled. I couldn’t do anything but smile.”
On Thursday, the Hillsborough County Public Schools posted on Facebook that seeing Smith walk was “an inspirational and emotional moment.”
“Kolton was paralyzed from the waist down after a horrible car accident last summer,” they added. “He was determined to rise from his wheelchair and walk across the stage to receive his diploma. We are in awe of your perseverance, Kolton. Congratulations!”
Watch the emotional moment below.
MUST SEE: Kolton became paralyzed after a horrific crash less than a year ago. This week, he walked across the stage at graduation???
Story by @JSalomoneTV >> https://t.co/4gD8MRKiCQ pic.twitter.com/RUVJjBDhBk
— ABC Action News (@abcactionnews) May 25, 2019
