Christian Mayberry, a 19 year-old Muldrow, OK resident, was in a tragic ATV accident on September 1, 2013. He suffered a traumatic brain injury that left he fighting for his life. He went through extensive therapy at Florida Institute for Neurological Rehabilitation, Inc (FINR) in 2014. At FINR, he was able to stand on his own for the first time since the accident. He learned how to walk again and speak clearly.
Doctors didn’t expect him to recover as well as he has. He is a living miracle and an inspiration. His faith in God played a huge role in his recovery. His mother, Kim Mayberry started a Facebook page, Pray for Mayberry, to share his journey with others.
Kim and Christian Mayberry are now able to share their testimony at local churches in hopes to bring others to Jesus. “A lady came up to me after church and said because of me she gave her life to God. It’s pretty amazing.” Christian said while recalling his recent church visit. They hope to minister to many other churches and can be contacted through their Facebook page.
I started following his story shortly after the accident and was amazed at his progress. I had the opportunity to meet Christian in person while he was temporarily in a nursing home. I felt inspired by this young man and my faith in God was strengthened through him.
I recently visited with Christian and his mother since they returned home from Florida. Christian greeted me at the door, standing tall at 6 foot 6. It was incredible to see the difference the treatment he received in Florida made.
I have learned many valuable lessons through Christian’s story:
1. Miracles really do happen
Christian is proof that miracles can happen. He fought hard for his life and had to overcome many obstacles. He gained his ability to walk, speak, and eat again through continuous prayer and faith.
2. There are still good people in the world
The Mayberry's received many generous donations through family, friends, and complete strangers. They are so thankful for them and feel blessed by the community outreach. I think it is amazing how willing total strangers have been to help the Mayberrys on their journey.
3. Cherish life
We are never promised tomorrow, all we have is today. We should cherish what we have in the present. You never know what may happen.
4. Stay positive
On of the most refreshing things I took away from my recent visit with Christian was how positive he was. He said that he could either take what happened to him in a negative way or see the good in it. By sharing his testimony to churches, he was been able to bring something good out of what happened to him. I think it is incredible that someone who has gone through something so terrible is able to have a positive attitude towards life.
5. Pray, always
Prayer is powerful! I think that is the main thing I have taken away from Christian's journey to recovery. I pray about absolutely everything from what I'm thankful about to my finances.
Christian, if you are reading this, I want to say thank you. You have showed me just how amazing God is. You are a very special person that God is using to save the lives of many. I wish you and your family nothing, but the very best!
