Makes the Most of His Miraculous Recovery

Brian Boyle was in a medically-induced coma for two months following a horrific car accident that left him clinging to life. His recovery is nothing short of a miracle given his condition and prognosis. He lost more than 60% of his blood and sustained damage to every major organ in his body, but thanks to the care he received in the hospital and support from his parents, family and friends, he's alive today and giving back. When Brian came out of the coma he was paralyzed. He couldn't move, eat or speak and although his body was shattered he pushed himself hard to recover. It started with a crooked smile for his parents and then with the help of a voice box he began to find his speech. More than four months later and after 14 operations, 36 blood transfusions and 13 plasma treatments he was released to a rehabilitation center for a week before finally being allowed to be cared for at home. During his stay in the hospital Brian lost more than 100 pounds and most of his muscle mass. It was painful for him to try to walk, feeling like "a thousand pins," but a letter from one of his idols who had heard of his ordeal inspired him to try swimming as part of his therapy. Gary Hall Jr., an Olympic swimmer wrote to Brian and encouraged him to persevere. Brian took that inspiration and advice and nearly one year after his accident Brian was not only swimming regularly but also riding a stationary bike, defying the odds given that he might never walk again. His story just keeps getting better as Brian went on to train for and compete in Iron Man competitions, which had been one of his dreams since childhood and now he makes sure to call attention to the life saving work of the Red Cross. As he says on his website: "A blood donation can make a difference between life and death. I am living proof of this." -- Brian Boyle, volunteer, blood recipient and donor. Do you know someone who has triumphed over tragedy and is now giving back to the community? Nominate them for next week's AmericanTowns hero story.