Stephen Murray 

June 22, 2007 marked a day that the Action Sports World will remember for a life time. A day that has forever changed the life of Professional BMX Dirt Jumper & three times U.S. Gold Medalist Stephen Murray.

In the midst of doing a double back-flip, Stephen Murray crashed while competing in the BMX Dirt Finals at the Dew Actions Sports Tour, in Baltimore, Maryland. It was quoted as being “one of the worst crashes seen in bmx” one that would ultimately be career ending, for this incredibility talented, 27 year old athlete.

Stephen was transported to University of Maryland Medical Centre Shock Trauma Unit. He had flat lined in the ambulance and again after reaching Shock Trauma, where medication was administered to bring him back.

Undergoing the first of two 7 hour surgeries, Doctors confirmed Stephen had crushed his 3, 4 and 5 cervical vertebrae, suffered severe damage to his spinal cord and the front of his vertebrae had been shattered. Stephen Murray, professional athlete, husband, father of two young boys, now paralyzed from the shoulders down.

His Mother & Father confide; “Initially it wasn’t the news of Stephen being paralyzed that frightened us, but if “Our Stephen” would make it through the night”.

 

Stephen Murray – Athlete

Stephen Murray moved the United States from Newcastle, Great Britain over 10 years ago with a dream of riding & competing with the best athletes in the sport. His goals set high, to achieve what no one had yet accomplished. He did just that, in 2001 and 2002 winning Gold Medals in BMX Dirt Jumping at the X Games and Back to Back Gold at the Gravity Games in the same year. He would continue on winning numerous titles & medals throughout his professional bmx career.

Stephen fought his way to the top of his sport; he would fight to breath, to stay alive. He continues his fight today; to one day hold his children and one day walk again.

“When you think there is nothing left, reach within and dig deeper”, “Believe in Yourself”

A web site & fund has been set up in efforts to help provide awareness & financial support. For more information how to get involved with the Stephen Murray Fund please visit:

www.stephenmurrayfamilyfund.com & www.myspace.com/murraystrong