Carl Byington fell off a mountain and then found a way to run again.
The story begins –
While trad rock climbing in West Virginia (Seneca Rocks) in 2003, he shattered a number of bones in his right leg and ankle. Carl was unable to walk for nine months and required five surgeries help repair the damage. His doctors initially told him that they believed he would no longer be able to live an active climbing and running lifestyle because of the extent of his injury.
See more on video –
YouTube video of the Story.
Original Webpage I started with this story.
After over 2 years of rehabilitation with physical therapy and weight lifting to restore his leg muscles, Carl started walking increasing distances again. After another year of walking, Carl was ready to train for a marathon again. In November 2006, Carl traveled to Athens Greece, the location of the first modern marathon. He was able to successfully complete the marathon but with great pain. Pain would stay as his guide. Carl would continue to run another marathon each year until he had completed one on each continent including Antarctica.
You can also see some of the Today Show coverage.
And these other news media outlets.
Geisinger Injury and Recovery Story.
The lesson was clear. Accept the circumstances and limitations you have, but become a leader for your own health and recovery. Be willing to put in the work and you will make progress towards your goal, even if it seems so far away as you start your journey.
In our efforts to continue to share more of this story, we have launched a new series of blogs from these marathons at my new website Seven Continent Quest. Please visit and comment.
Carl Byington continues his climbing, running, backpacking, diving and other adventures. Keep up with him on this adventure website and blogs.
Solvitur Ambulando!
