“Life is ten percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you react to it.” – Charles R. Swindall
During our journey through life, at one point or another, we are faced with adversity. Only we, ourselves, can decide how to overcome hardship. When faced with adversity in 2000, Wyatt Halvorson, chose determination.
Life-Altering Moments
While working at a seed plant, Wyatt’s leg was seriously injured in an accident involving equipment. Due to infection and other complications, he made the decision to have it amputated.
“I was going into my senior year of college. I was playing football. That was the only thing I knew at that point,” he said. “I hadn’t prepared for the future. But, it wasn’t worth feeling sorry for myself.”
A New Direction
Wyatt resumed life with a positive attitude. Little did he know that his opportunity to overcome tribulations could lead to a job opportunity.
“I was always working with my hands. As a farm kid, you had to be able to think outside the box and build things with your hands. During my appointments with Paul, he would encourage me to pursue a career in prosthetics. Finally, I did. It was the best decision I ever made.”
Working in Altru’s Prosthetic and Orthotics department gives him a sense of satisfaction knowing that he can help people who are going through the same struggles he once faced.
“It’s the most rewarding job you could ever have. I know what it’s like to take those first few steps after the amputation,” he said. “I keep telling them that there will be hard moments and setbacks, but you have to keep looking forward and stay positive.
Overcoming Obstacles
Despite everything he’s been though, having prosthesis doesn’t keep Wyatt from living the fullest life possible. Wyatt lives in Northwood, N.D, where he ranches and farms. He is also national champion in wheelchair softball, with MVP honors. By the spring of 2014, he hopes to have organized a wheelchair softball league for youth in Grand Forks, and is currently trying to get sponsorships for a field.
“You only get one chance to go around. Have fun. Do what you can and don’t have any regrets,” he said.
