A Georgetown University grad received a standing ovation on Saturday when he stood up out of his wheelchair and walked across the stage with the help of an aide and a walker to receive his diploma, two years after breaking his neck in a football game.
Ty Williams, who played linebacker for the Hoyas at the time of his injury, received a hug and his diploma from university President John DeGioia. The touching moment was later shared on social media.
A tweet from the university explains that the occasion marked the first time that Williams had walked in two-and-a-half years.
Tragedy struck for the Montgomery County native during the Hoyas’ 2015 season opener.
While going for a routine tackle, Williams sustained fractured vertebrae and lost the ability to move his lower body, Fox 5 DC reported.
He underwent several surgeries and spent the past two years in and out of medical rehab facilities as he worked toward learning how to walk again while completing his undergraduate degree in government.
Related: What Texas Police Did for This Wheelchair-Bound Boy
Williams, who gave a moving speech at his former high school’s graduation ceremony last year, remains on the Hoyas roster.
Players wear a No. 2 sticker on the back of their helmets in his honor.
This Fox News piece is used by permission.
Read more at Fox News:
Nikki Bella Says She Felt ‘Off’ After Getting Engaged to John Cena
Jet Li Looks Unrecognizable, Shocks Fans with Frail Appearance in Photo
Meghan Markle, Prince Harry Release Official Royal Wedding Photos
Join the Discussion
COMMENTS POLICY: We have no tolerance for messages of violence, racism, vulgarity, obscenity or other such discourteous behavior. Thank you for contributing to a respectful and useful online dialogue.