Paralyzed Football Player’s Strength Inspires Me to Act
In May, a special event took place in Cambridge, Massachusetts, celebrating the remarkable achievements of Ben Abercrombie, a former Harvard football player. This gathering occurred on Harvard’s graduation day at the top floor of the tallest building in the city, where approximately 60 guests gathered to honor Ben’s journey.
Celebrating Ben Abercrombie’s Journey
Seven years after a tragic spinal injury during his first game, Ben graduated with a finance degree. The injury left him paralyzed from the neck down, a life-altering event that dramatically changed his trajectory.
John Schall, the owner of the venue and a long-time advocate for Ben, hosted this celebration. For years, Schall organized numerous fundraisers to help cover Ben’s extensive medical bills. The evening, however, was not about seeking donations but a celebration of Ben’s incredible comeback.
A Long Road to Recovery
The party highlighted not only Ben’s academic success but also his perseverance through adversity. Family and friends gathered to share memories of Ben’s earlier life as an athletic prodigy in Hoover, Alabama. Mounting hardships included a physically demanding recovery and adjusting to life in a wheelchair.
Community Support and Fundraising
Since his injury, friends and family have rallying around Ben, notably through the inaugural 3.2 for Ben road race that raised over $1 million for his care. Over the years, participation has expanded significantly, demonstrating the community’s dedication to helping Ben and others in similar situations.
- The 3.2 for Ben event takes place annually, typically in November.
- The race has spread to multiple states over its years of operation.
- As a pivotal figure in organizing the race, a youth from Connecticut has inspired many by bringing participants together.
The Key Players in Ben’s Life
During the graduation celebration, various speakers shared personal stories about Ben’s struggles and victories. His coach, Tim Murphy, reminisced about Ben’s tenacity on the field, showcasing his nickname, “Badger,” awarded for his relentless spirit.
Ben’s parents, Sherri and Marty Abercrombie, moved to Harvard’s dorms to support him through his recovery. Their unwavering commitment to his well-being was evident as they navigated the customs of college life alongside their son.
Hope and Future Plans
Recently, a significant breakthrough in Ben’s recovery emerged with an innovative treatment developed by NervGen, a biotech company working on healing nerve injuries. The treatment hopes to decrease scar tissue around the injury site, restoring some nerve function.
This new development provides both Ben and his family with renewed optimism about the potential for recovery. He has kept up with his physical therapy while preparing to start a remote job with Wells Fargo, showcasing his determination to regain independence.
Inspiring Future Generations
Despite the challenges, Ben expressed a desire to remain involved in the sport he loves. He has plans to connect with high school athletes, showcasing the resilience that defined his journey and imparting life lessons stemming from his experiences.
Ben’s story serves as a powerful reminder of strength, commitment, and community support. His journey will continue to inspire not only those directly involved in sports but many others navigating their own battles.
