Life changed for Chris Norton in an instant, going from a talented college football player to a quadriplegic with a 3 percent chance of ever moving or feeling anything below his neck. But, with determination and hard work, Chris proved his doctors wrong four years later by walking across the stage to receive his college diploma. Emily Norton knew from a young age that she was called to help struggling children through mentorship and possibly even foster care. What she could not anticipate was the journey she was about to start as she helped Chris work through his physical challenges and goals while facing her own battle with anxiety and depression. Don’t miss today’s episode of Pardon the Mess as Emily and Chris candidly share the ups and downs of their journey, including the road to adopting five beautiful girls and fostering seventeen children—and counting. Chris and Emily encourage us to cling to the Lord in the hard places of life and to work hard and defy our seemingly impossible situations. Their words can’t help but remind us of the promise that in all things God works for his good for those who love him and have been called according to his purposes (Romans 8:28). Chris and Emily are remarkable and can’t help but encourage you to find joy and courage in the hard places, trusting the Lord as he refines us for his glory.   Links for today's podcast:   The Seven Longest Yards Chris Norton’s Graduation Walk Chris and Emily Norton’s Wedding Walk