The Seven Longest Yards: Our Love Story of Pushing the Limits while Leaning on Each Other

He was told hed never walk again. She was losing hope that shed ever feel whole again. This is their miraculous true story of defying the impossible."In my very first impression of Chris, I was blown away by his determination to stay positive, do the work, and trust that God had a bigger story in mind . . . this book is a master class in the power of perseverance." -Tim TebowQuadriplegics simply do not walk again - yet millions watched as Chris Norton defied incredible odds and took step by impossible step across his graduation stage. With his fiancée Emily by his side, those unbelievable steps became the start of an extraordinary journey for them both. Told from both of their unique perspectives, this moving story invites you to find, as Chris and Emily have, that God can transform our lowest points into lifes greatest gifts.In a moment, Chris went from a talented college football player with a promising future to a quadriplegic with a 3 percent chance of ever moving or feeling anything below his neck, much less walking again. Determined to prove the doctors wrong, he pushed himself through grueling, daily workouts to achieve his goal four years later: walking the stage to receive his college diploma with Emilys help, and to the worlds astonished applause.                  Meanwhile, Emily faced her own challenges as she sunk into a deep battle against anxiety and depression, despite her lifes outward blessings. Day by day, decision by decision, Chris and Emily committed themselves to taking the extra step, trusting God, and leaning on the help of others. In a story of courageous faith and grit, this extraordinary couples journey ultimately led them to tackle the seven longest yards - down the wedding aisle and into a new life together.And what a new life it is: Chris and Emily have adopted five beautiful girls and welcomed foster children - seventeen and counting! - into their home and hearts. Let this book be your inspiration for defying your own impossible, and finding joy on the other side. Review If you are struggling in some way right now, do your best to keep in mind that although it might not seem so, better days are coming. No one knows this better than Chris and Emily Norton. Their story, told though The Seven Longest Yards, will remind you that the test always comes before the merit. The struggle always precedes the strength. You have to endure breakdowns to break through them. Take it one day at a time, and trust the journey. Just as Chris and Emily did. -- Marc and Angel Chernoff, New York Times bestselling authors of Getting Back to HappyChris and Emilys story will inspire you and infuse your life with the courage to face the challenges of life. -- Dr. Thomas Mullins, founding pastor of Christ Fellowship ChurchIn life, everything happens for a reason, and meeting Chris reassured me of that. His positive attitude and desire to make a difference in other peoples lives are infectious. This book will not only inspire you but will make you take action to bring positivity into this world. -- Eric LeGrand, former Rutgers football player, motivational speakerThe Seven Longest Yards will have you laughing, crying, and feeling challenged to keep moving forward in life. Youll be ready to take on those things you thought you could never accomplish. Chris and Emily have given us a gift of encouragement and practical inspiration in the pages of this book. This is a must-read. -- Todd and Julie Mullins, senior pastors of Christ Fellowship ChurchWhen I meet someone who can take steps after a serious fracture to their neck, I always say, Youre a walking miracle! That describes Chris Norton. This man refused to accept his doctors prognosis and found the will to move forward despite adversity. If you like stories that inspire you to fight against the odds, The Seven Longest Yards should be your next read! -- Joni Eareckson Tada, Joni and Friends International Disabil