John Maclean was well on his way to become a professional rugby player until a truck smashed into him in 1988 leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. The father of one was left with about a 25 percent function in his left leg, while his right leg was far below that number.
Despite not being able to walk, the Australian athlete went on to accomplish several feats. He became the first person in a wheelchair to finish the Ford Ironman World Championship in 1995, an annual triathlon held in Hawaii. Two years later, he also became the first to swim the English Channel as a wheelchair athlete, and later participated in the Olympics and Paralympics.
But, Maclean’s motivation paired with medical advances, he was able to defy the odds of those who have suffered a severe spinal injury. Maclean began training intensely with a sports coach and therapist to build his strength and coordination. He also engaged in several exercises for his mind.
And then, he was able to walk again after 25 years of being in a wheelchair (similarly to the Virginia high school student who walked on his graduation day). Maclean’s doctors are calling it a miracle.
“Gradually, one step after the other, then things were happening, which I couldn't explain," Maclean told Australia's 60 Minutes. "It just keeps on getting more extraordinary."
Watch below and please SHARE if you are blown away by John Maclean's inspirational story!
