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A documentary that will inspire you to overcome.

7 Yards is a feature-length documentary that explores the resilience and perspective of Chris Norton. In October 2010 at age 18, Chris suffered a debilitating spinal cord injury during a college football game. Doctors gave him just a 3 percent chance to ever move again. But he defied that diagnosis.

After years of physical therapy and training, Chris’ story went viral in 2015 when he successfully walked across the college graduation stage with the help of his fiancée Emily. Video of Chris walking to get his diploma touched the world and has received over 300 million views. Soon after, Chris and Emily set an ambitious new goal: walk seven yards side-by-side down their wedding aisle. The film features powerful interviews, emotional reenactments and real footage from their 2018 wedding. It’s the inspirational comeback story of Chris and his journey from college athlete to medical miracle to viral inspiration and now adoptive father.

what people are saying about 7 yards

  • ★★★★★

    “This film embodies the type of good/hard story we need more of in this world. It’s beautifully shot and fast-paced, powerfully re-enacted and told by the actual people who lived it. Our whole family was moved to laughter, tears, and cheers!”

    - Jay and Katherine Wolf

  • ★★★★★

    "Chris Norton, a true inspiration and encouragement! Please check out his incredible story... it’s one on overcoming, and is so encouraging to me."

    - Tim Tebow

  • ★★★★★

    "So POWERFUL. My friend @chrisanorton16's story of courage and perseverance is truly awe-inspiring."

    - Terry Crews

  • ★★★★★

    "Chris Norton is an inspiration to my life!"

    -John Maxwell

  • ★★★★★

    The Story 2021 Needed!

    After the year we've all had, this heartfelt documentary hit all the notes we needed to hear - resilience, community, drive, and ultimately love. I am so inspired by Chris and Emily and now have a renewed energy to face whatever else this year has in store. What a bright light in hard times!

    - IMDb Review

  • ★★★★★

    "This film is incredibly powerful. A story of resilience, determination and courage! I am truly inspired by Chris' bravery and touched by the love and support of his family and wife. This documentary holds a special place in my heart."

    - Hayley Raso

  • ★★★★★

    "Wow, a powerful story, told in a very human way."

    - Richard Kline

  • ★★★★★

    "Popcorn ready... check..... tissues.....check. So ready for this."

    - Susan Jones

  • ★★★★★

    "The world needs your family's story of hope, love and faith now more than ever. So excited for all of you!"

    - Christian Bouska

  • ★★★★★

    "If you are looking for hope, inspiration or just need to know that miracles still happen, this film is for you."

    - Krisi Johnson

  • ★★★★★

    "Has the global pandemic got you down? Watch Chris Norton's story in the @7yardsfilm documentary and you will be inspired to overcome ANY challenge you have in your life. I promise."

    - @myinspiringinterior

  • ★★★★★

    "Be inspired. Watch Chis Norton's story in the @7yardsfilm documentary and you will be inspired to overcome ANY challenge you have in your life. NEVER QUIT."

    - @completefitness2011

  • ★★★★★

    "Chris Norton's story is an inspiring portrayal of the possibility that you can overcome anything. We believe this is such an important message, especially during these challenging times."

    - OnPath Financial

  • ★★★★★

    "Absolutely loved this film. This story is exactly what our world needs right now!"

    - EP White

  • ★★★★★

    "Whether you are an athlete, parent, patient, caregiver or just in need of some inspiration, you'll find a connection to this uplifting story of extraordinary hope, love, faith and family.

    7 Yards is the perfect reminder for all of us right now that no matter what - just keep going."

    - Lisa Weier

  • ★★★★★

    "Friends - don't miss the chance to be profoundly impacted by this film. We've never needed its message more."

    - Parker Wilson

  • ★★★★★

    "I just finished watching your movie and even though I know your story, have read your book and are friends with you... I was still moved to tears... MULTIPLE times. What an incredible journey."

    - Angel Chernoff

  • ★★★★★

    "It's so easy to only see obstacles...but if you want to see what's truly possible, 7 Yards will amaze you. Moving, powerful and inspiring, Chris' story will take away your excuses and give you back hope instead."

    - Carey Nieuwhof

  • ★★★★★

    "Be ready to be inspired and motivated to do more with your life. 7 yards had me in tears many times and gave me a new perspective on life. Chris never gave up and went against all odds and achieved the unthinkable. The things Chris has been able to do gives you a fresh look at your own life and where you can improve, push harder, and become a better version of yourself. After watching Chris's story, it shows you that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. Do yourself a favor and watch this film. You won't take your life for granted anymore and you will certainly be motivated to do more."

    - Amazon Customer

  • ★★★★★

    A Muse See for the Whole Family! What a great movie! All ages are inspired by this film.

    - IMDb Review

  • ★★★★★

    Most inspiring movie of the year! A truly unbelievable story of perseverance in the face of incredible adversity!

    -IMDb Review

  • ★★★★★

    WOW! Beyond inspired by 7 Yards!

    - Mark Batterson

A Walk that Inspired Millions

FAQ

Why make 7 Yards the documentary?

Simply put, Chris and Emily's story deserves to be told and their journey needs to be experienced in the way only a documentary can offer. Through interviews and reenactments done by the real film subjects, we have captured the full vignette of their journey: from Chris' life-altering injury on the Luther College football field in 2010 to Chris and Emily's inspiring walk down the wedding aisle. 

Furthermore, Fotolanthropy exists to inspire viewers and empower our film subjects. We believe there is a real need for more positive content - raw, honest stories that spark change and uplift the soul. We also often see our work being used as a platform by film subjects. Through our documentaries, we strive to help raise awareness for such causes, and hope that 7 Yards will be an effective tool for Chris to use in his continued advocacy for those with spinal cord injuries and his motivational speaking career.

Where can I watch 7 Yards?

7 YARDS is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, VUDU, Google Play and Vimeo On Demand!

To purchase the film on DVD, visit Amazon, Target, Barnes & Noble or Best Buy.

I love this story, how can I get involved?

Share! As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we rely on super-fans like you to help us spread the word about #7yardsfilm. Join our movement by sharing on social media, emailing your network of friends, family and coworkers and subscribing to our newsletters. Want to become an official ambassador for the film? Please email us at films@fotolanthropy.com to learn more.

Rate and Review! Let Chris know how much his story has inspired you and help us reach more people who need to hear his powerful message by leaving a rating and review here.