Craig Franklin’s life was upended in a matter of seconds. At just 37 years old, the Morganton resident was paralyzed after a diving accident in August. The injury left him a high-level quadriplegic. Just as he was beginning to grasp the magnitude of his situation, another tragedy struck: Hurricane Helene, the most devasting storm to hit Western North Carolina in more than a century.
What seemed like the worst of times became even more challenging. Yet, through all the hardship, Craig’s story has become one of remarkable resilience, unwavering faith and the extraordinary care he has received at Atrium Health’s Carolinas Rehabilitation in Charlotte.
A Life-Changing Accident
The day that changed Craig’s life forever began like any other summer evening, but it quickly turned into a nightmare. He had been at a friend’s house near Asheville, where a small gathering led to a late-night swim in the pool. Unaware of the shallow depth, Craig dove in. His head struck the bottom of the pool with such force that he immediately felt a sharp, excruciating pain.
“I just jumped in, and I remember hitting the bottom and hearing the crack,” he recalled. “I couldn’t move. It all happened so fast.”
His friend, realizing the severity of the situation, quickly turned him over and called 911.
Craig was airlifted to Mission Hospital in downtown Ashville, where doctors confirmed the grim reality: his spinal cord had been severely damaged. He was paralyzed from the neck down.
The next few days blurred into one long haze of pain, confusion and fear. Craig spent several days in the hospital, unable to fully comprehend what had happened. His family surrounded him, offering support as they, too, came to terms with the life-altering injury.
“My family’s been there on the side the whole time,” Craig said. “It was a life-changing thing, but they’ve never left me.”
The Challenge of Recovery
However, just as Craig was settling into his recovery routine at a rehabilitation hospital in Asheville, another curveball was thrown his way. Hurricane Helene made landfall and ravaged the area. With flooding and power outages affecting the entire region, Craig’s home was without power, leaving him temporarily displaced.
Despite the tragedy, the storm inadvertently opened a new door for Craig’s recovery.
“God made this path for me,” Craig said, reflecting on the twist of fate that led to his relocation. “Even through the hurricane—it brought me to where I needed to be.”
When the storm hit, Craig was evacuated to Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation in Charlotte, a nationally ranked center specializing in spinal cord injury care. While his home was damaged and his life in Asheville was in disarray, Craig found solace in knowing that he was at a place where he would receive the highest level of care.
Finding Expert Care in Charlotte
Carolinas Rehabilitation is ranked No. 7 nationally for spinal cord injury care, and Craig was immediately placed under the care of Dr. Michael Ortiz, a physician who specializes in spinal cord injuries. Dr. Ortiz quickly assessed Craig’s condition and prognosis.
Based on his initial examination, Dr. Ortiz determined there was still hope for regaining some function in his lower limbs.
“We classify Craig’s injury as a cervical incomplete injury, which means there’s still some signal getting through,” said Dr. Ortiz. “He’s showing some muscle twitches in his left leg, which is a good sign. It’s likely he’s progressing to what we call motor incomplete, which is a better prognosis overall.”
Craig’s optimism has been bolstered by this positive outlook, but he knows that the road ahead is long and uncertain. “It’s just been a process,” Craig said. “Every little victory feels huge. Whether it’s moving a finger or taking a breath on my own, it’s progress. It keeps me hopeful.”
Dr. Ortiz stressed the importance of early rehabilitation for spinal cord injury patients. The first few months after an injury are the most critical, as the body begins the process of healing and adaptation. For Craig, that means engaging in a range of therapeutic activities designed to stimulate his muscles and nerves.
“Rehabilitation is about more than just physical therapy,” Ortiz said. “It’s a multidisciplinary approach. Craig’s recovery involves physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and a whole team of specialists working together. He has a social worker to help with everything from medical equipment to insurance issues, and he’s also learning how to use technology in ways that accommodate his new reality.”
Technology and Innovation in Recovery
One of the most innovative therapies available at Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation is functional electrical stimulation (FES), which is used to help stimulate the muscles of patients with spinal cord injuries. Craig has benefited from this technology, using it to activate his muscles and improve circulation. He’s also been involved in recreational therapy, participating in outdoor activities like wheelchair tennis and hand cycling at local parks. These activities not only promote physical health but also provide a psychological boost by showing patients that life after injury can still be fulfilling.
“We have a really comprehensive program here,” Ortiz said. “Patients like Craig have access to a wide range of therapies, including FES, recreational therapy and even urological studies. These things are essential in helping patients regain independence and live a full life.”
The Role of Faith and Family
Throughout his recovery, Craig’s faith has played a central role. “I’ve always believed that God has a plan for me, but I never thought it would be something like this,” he said. “Now, I see it as part of a bigger picture.”
His family has been instrumental in his journey. Craig’s parents have been there every step of the way, ensuring that his needs are met both physically and emotionally. “I don’t know where I’d be without them,” Craig said. “My dad’s constantly putting Bible verses up, and my mom is here every day, pushing me to keep going, even when it feels impossible.”
The support from friends and extended family has also been overwhelming. “I’ve had 1,000 people praying for me,” Craig said. “I had a prayer group come in to visit me, and even random people from church would stop by to pray. It’s been a huge source of strength for me.”
Looking to the Future
Craig’s path to recovery is still uncertain. He has yet to regain full sensation in his limbs, but every day brings small improvements.
“I’m just trying to get my limbs back,” he said. “I wake up every day excited to see what’s improving, whether it’s my fingers or my stomach. It’s cool to see the progress, and I’m thankful for every little bit of feeling I get back.”
While his future remains unclear, Craig is determined to make the best of his situation. With his strong faith, the support of his family, and the care he’s receiving at Carolinas Rehabilitation, Craig remains hopeful.
“I’m not giving up,” he said. “Every day is a battle, but I’m going to keep fighting. I’ve got a lot of life left to live.”
