By Marla Jones, Sports Editor • marla@southerntorch.com

CROSSVILLE, Ala. — Five years ago, Nick Walls' life changed forever.

Walls was involved in a terrible four-wheeler wreck that scarred him for life: he suffered a broken back, collapsed lung and several broken ribs. 

After ten hours of surgery, his injury left him paralyzed and unable to move or feel anything from the waste down. Doctors told his family they didn't know if he would ever walk again.

"This was the scariest news I had ever heard," said Walls. "I was confused and didn't understand why it had to happen, but I chose to believe that it happened for a reason. I chose to not give up." 

Today, after years of hard work and a lot of recovery, Walls can walk. He wears a brace on his leg to help his foot, but he's never let it stop him. 

He has had many accomplishments and opportunities over the last five years. 

He has nine state records and eight national records in the discus, shot put, and javelin throw. He also had the opportunity to play wheelchair basketball for the University of Alabama. He now has a chance to be in the Olympics for the USA's Paralympic Team. 

"It's been a long and crazy journey, but I've learned a lot," stated Walls. "I could not have done it without my Lord and Savior. None of this would've happened without God." 

The main message that Nick would like to tell readers is to stay positive and "always remember that everything happens for a reason. God always has a bigger and better plan."