Paralyzed DeSoto football player stands for first time since injury

A former DeSoto Eagles football player continues to defy expectations.

It’s been eight years since Corey Borner was paralyzed after taking a hit on the practice field. On Monday, Borner announced that he is now able to stand up with help from a piece of machinery.

Charlotte Borner is her son's biggest cheerleader.

“Strong woman…strong, I promise you. Never give up. I tell her to keep pushing, she tells me to keep pushing,” Corey said.

That constant pushing from Corey's mom, former coaches and the community helped Corey graduate from college in May and now -- stand up straight.

With help from what's called a "standing frame chair," Corey is able to view the world from a different, yet familiar vantage point.

“I was a little nervous, I was a little nervous. Standing up, talking to people face to face instead of sitting was a big accomplishment,” Corey said. “It made me so happy as well.”

Corey is still part of the DeSoto Eagles family. Wearing his retired No. 24 jersey, the one-time promising defensive back stood proudly on the same football field where he was paralyzed -- cheered on by fans at the Eagles homecoming game.

“When he was out on the field it was exciting cause we're standing out on the DeSoto Eagles… you know Eagles for life,” Charlotte said.

Corey uses the standing frame chair at home about once a week. He says it helps him with circulation and is mentally preparing him -- to hopefully -- one day, walk again.

Count on mom to be there and cheering him on.

“Without her I don't know what I'd do,” Corey said. “But with her seeing me stand, bringing happiness to her heart as well, that keeps me going.”