Boston marathon survivor Rebekah Gregory returned to the race that caused her to become an amputee to cross the finish line yesterday.
If Rebekah’s name sounds familiar, it’s because I shared a story about her in our monthly newsletter. Back in February I was lucky enough to attend a winter charity event by the organization “Wiggle Your Toes,” which helps amputees regain their independence and mobility after an unexpected life event. Rebekah was the keynote speaker that night, and her story was incredible.
Rebekah, her son and her husband were near the finish line of the Boston Marathon on April 15, 2013 when a bomb exploded nearby. Rebekah suffered the most serious injuries, and although doctors preformed multiple surgeries in an attempt to save her leg, ultimately she needed a below-the-knee amputation. Through all that, Rebekah never let the loss of a limb slow her down. Now she travels the world and inspires others through speaking engagements and her Facebook page. It was so amazing to hear her story and see how her positive attitude affected everyone in attendance.
Returning to Boston
For all the speaking engagements she’s done, Rebekah wanted to showcase her perseverance and determination through action, so just two years after a bomb left her with a prosthetic, she returned to the city and the race where it all began. She had been training for the race for months, strengthening her body for at least an hour a day, five days a week.
With permission from race officials, Rebekah was allowed to enter the race at the 23-mile mark, leaving her 3.2 miles from the finish line. Armed with determination and the cheers of thousands of onlookers, Rebekah took her first step towards the finish line. A short while later, Rebekah broke down in happy tears as she crossed the finish line, “overcome with emotions.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxCQSPAZbwY
“Just to know that I was crossing the finish line on my own foot and I wasn’t in a wheelchair like last year and I wasn’t laying on the pavement fighting for my life like the year before,” Gregory told ABC News after crossing the finish line. “I’ve come a long way and I’m just going to keep going because there’s no stopping me.”
Dr. Silverman comments
Rebekah is a true inspiration to us all. It was an honor to hear her speak, and I’m so happy she was able to accomplish her ultimate goal and cross the finish line on her feet. I can’t wait to see what she has in store next.
Related source: ABC News