Nathan Santa Cruz, a 17-year-old track athlete, underwent a life-altering brain injury during high school football but showcased remarkable recovery and resilience. Recovering swiftly, he pursued track successfully, boasting a personal best of 47.74 seconds in the 400 meters. As he prepares for a rematch against a rival, Santa Cruz reflects on life's blessings and his commitment to self-improvement, inspired by his near-death experience. He has secured a track scholarship at Cal Poly Pomona, underscoring his transition from a traumatic incident to a hopeful future in sports and academics.
"At the end of the day, it's God giving you another chance to wake up. Make sure I'm better than yesterday. That's what I do."
"We don't know if he's going to make it," his mother, Crystal Clark, remembers being told at the hospital.
Santa Cruz recovered so well that he played two more years of football, but his real love was using his speed in track.
"I think it's going to be a real competitive race," Santa Cruz said. "I'm going to try to come out on top."
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