The Seven Longest Yards – Chris and Emily Norton

Chris and Emily Norton are no ordinary couple... For Chris and Emily, walking across the stage at his college graduation seemed like an impossible goal. Paralyzed in a football game his freshman year, Chris was given a three percent chance of moving anything below the neck again. But he trained relentlessly. With his then-fiancé Emily by his side, Chris’ triumphant 10 steps were seen by millions around the world! Little did they know, this was just the beginning of Chris and Emily’s incredible journey. Three years later, Chris joyfully conquered another challenge, this time walking seven yards down the aisle after their wedding ceremony with new wife Emily at his side – seven yards that symbolized the seven-year anniversary of his injury. But with all of their triumphs, Chris and Emily have also faced many challenges and struggles. Together they’ve fostered 17 children, adopted 5 daughters, and overcome a season of debilitating depression and anxiety that set in for Emily just two weeks after Chris’ graduation walk. Listen now as Chris and Emily share their story and the strength they found in fully relying on God and supporting one another. Subscribe to hear Chris and Emily talk more about fostering, parenting with a disability, and overcoming depression and anxiety on the next episode of the Joni and Friends Ministry Podcast.