Donor Spotlight: The Chris Norton Foundation

February 18, 2021

7 yards The Chris Norton Foundation is dedicated to helping individuals with spinal cord and neuromuscular disabilities live their best lives.

This organization was founded by Chris Norton, who suffered an injury during a college football game which caused him to lose feeling and movement from the neck down. He was told he would never walk again, but through perseverance was able to walk the stage at his graduation and walk down the aisle at his wedding.

During his recovery, Chris observed that too many people didn’t have access to the necessary equipment and assistance to achieve their recovery goals. Chris and his parents founded the Chris Norton Foundation to help these individuals overcome their obstacles and preserver, like he was able to.

To date, the Chris Norton Foundation has awarded more than $105,000 in grants to MercyOne Des Moines to purchase innovative physical therapy equipment for patients with spinal cord injuries and neuromuscular disabilities.

“MercyOne is an organization with exceptional people and services and they align with our mission by their commitment to serve those dealing with neurological disorders,” said Chris. “They make it easy for our foundation to support them.”

“It is an honor to partner and assist in MercyOne's mission.”

“We are so grateful for the support we have received from the Chris Norton Foundation,” said Erica Nease, supervisor of rehabilitation therapy at MercyOne Riverside Rehabilitation. “We are able to purchase innovative equipment which supports our patients and their recovery goals.”

Chris’ new documentary, 7 Yards: The Chris Norton Story, premieres Monday, February 22. This documentary shares Chris’ story and raises awareness for the need to support others with spinal cord and neuromuscular disabilities.

Scenes from the documentary were filmed at different MercyOne Central Iowa locations.

"We are so grateful to the MercyOne team for hosting our film crew for 7 Yards: The Chris Norton Story,” said Katie Norris, producer of the documentary. “Their hospitality allowed for us to bring crucial scenes to life."

View the preview for 7 Yards: The Chris Norton Story.

For more information on how you can support MercyOne Des Moines patients with spinal cord and neuromuscular disabilities please contact Senior Director of Development, Sophia Ahmad, at 515-643-8035 or SAhmad@mercydesmoines.org.