Man Takes First Steps in 34 Years

Man Takes First Steps in 34 Years


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Jed Boal ReportingA man from South America took his first steps in more than three decades today, thanks to the efforts of people here in Utah. It was an emotional day for the man, but a problem in the process nearly ruined his dream.

A couple of Utah companies and the contributions of many enabled the Ecuadorian man to get out of his wheelchair and walk. When he arrived in Utah last month, we reported on a major snag in the process. Friends and strangers stepped up to help so he could take his first steps.

Man Takes First Steps in 34 Years

For the first time in 34 years, Victor Penafiel of Ecuador stood up and started to walk. With his determination, he should quickly get the hang of it again.

Victor Penafiel: "This is a miracle, this is a miracle from God."

Man Takes First Steps in 34 Years

Penafiel lost both legs and an arm when he fell from a train and was crushed under the wheels when he was eleven. A friend taught him to swim. He got so good, he swam in a four kilometer river race, placed well, and he was the only disabled swimmer.

An LDS mission couple from Utah saw his story in Ecuador and made plans to help Penafiel walk again.

Victor Penafiel: "All my friends always dreamed of me standing up, never the way I was."

Man Takes First Steps in 34 Years

Fit Well donated its services to attach donated limbs. But when Penafiel arrived in Salt Lake six weeks ago, they discovered a miscommunication--only the feet had been donated, no legs, knees or other critical components.

The community quickly responded. Hal Wing and his wife of Little Giant Ladders gave 20-thousand dollars and individual donations totaled eight-thousand more.

Hal Wing, Little Giant Ladder Systems: "Here's a man that took the cards that were dealt him and made the most out of it. It's an incredible story."

Fit Well marvels in the difference these limbs can make.

Scott Allen, Fit Well: "It's a joy to see that in his face, and in his family's lives, that's what it's all about."

Penafiel looks forward to playing with his children as a player and no longer the referee.

Victor Penafiel: "Everything came to be because of all of your work, all of your prayers and all of your efforts."

Penafiel will get started on short, temporary legs, then move on to his permanent limbs. Fitwell also plans to fit him with a prosthetic arm next week.

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