North East

Chris tells the story so far...

When you see the aerial acrobatics of the BMX riders as they hurtle off the end of a ramp your heart is in your mouth.

It’s not for the fainthearted and it’s definitely for the young.

As the competitors make their way back to the start they’ll be covered in dust and dirt and probably some cuts and bruises.

Stephen Murray reached the very top and took the risks in his stride.

Freak Accident

The first time I met the Tyneside BMX superhero his eyes shone brightly , he beamed a smile at me and as he spoke he gave me the warmest of welcomes.

Stephen starting the run which led to his accident

But from the neck down there was nothing.

That was the sharp contrast in his body that came from a break to his neck while he attempted a competition stunt he’d successfully completed before.

His freak accident left him with the same injury as Superman actor Christopher Reeve.

Positive attitude

Stephen has to be strapped into his chair as he needs the extra support.

His paralysis has left his muscles wanting to twist his spine.

His fingers now try to curl into a fist. His two sons, Seth and Mason aged five and three try to straighten them out with Stephen’s encouragement.

It’s a domestic physiotherapy session that’s also a game for the kids he can no longer hold by himself.

If it all sounds rather sad, that’s one emotion you don’t see when you are around Stephen.

He has got to be one of the most positive people I have met.

His motto is "Stay Strong" a message he’s developing into a sports brand which hopefully will help pay for his rehabilitation.

Superman's doctor

I turn up for one of his medical appointments at a spinal centre in Baltimore USA.

Therapy helps treat Stephen's injuries

He’s being seen by John McDonald, the same specialist who treated Christopher Reeve. 

Regular sessions help to exercise his unwilling body and there seem to be some signs that he can exert a little control over his limbs.

His aim is to walk again and no-one who meets him can doubt his determination.

You’d think he’d want to steer his kids away from any daredevil sporting antics – but no.

He’s not bitter about what happened to him.

I am pretty sure I do not possess the same true grit.

Staying strong

Exactly a year since his accident we go to the same BMX championships where he crashed.

I wonder how he’ll feel.

Stephen's family help as he rebuilds his life

There are some days he struggles with the pain and frustration of his condition, but today of all days he’s determined to be there.

Fellow competitors throng to be by his side.

It could have been overwhelming.

The normally gobby and cheeky Stephen is a little quiet.

Seeing the other BMXers flying through the air makes you realise what he’s missing, but from Stephen you never get the sense of ...if only.

He does stay strong.