Chris Norton

Husband | Father | Author | Speaker

In our carefully planned lives, unexpected detours often leave us drowning in doubt, questioning God's goodness and wondering if things will ever get better. But what if these shattered plans are actually invitations to be part of a greater story?

Chris Norton grew up in Bondurant-Farrar, Iowa where his dreams of playing college football became reality at Luther College. But at just 18 years old during his freshman season a routine tackle left him paralyzed with only a 3% chance of ever moving anything below his neck. In that moment everything changed.

Through unwavering faith and perseverance, Chris regained enough strength to walk across his graduation stage at Luther College and later walk 7 yards down the aisle with his wife Emily on their wedding day. These moments have been viewed over 400 million times across social media and major news networks, inspiring millions worldwide.

I PRAY THAT GOD, THE SOURCE OF HOPE, WILL FILL YOU COMPLETELY WITH JOY AND PEACE BECAUSE YOU TRUST HIM. THEN YOU WILL OVERFLOW WITH CONFIDENT HOPE THROUGH THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.

– Romans 15:13

Chris's journey demonstrates how God transforms our darkest chapters into our most powerful testimony when we place them in His hands..

Chris delivers his story with authenticity, appropriate humor, and biblical insight that resonates deeply with anyone facing life's unexpected challenges. As a keynote speaker, Chris has inspired audiences that have included Culvers, John Deere, Microsoft, Lockheed Martin, Portland Trailblazers, Fox Sports, San Francisco 49ers and many more.

Chris and Emily now live in Wellington, Florida, where they've fostered 23 children and adopted five. Their story is featured in the award-winning documentary "7 yards".