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Avalanche Survivor Defies Odds, Reclaims Life After Near-Death Experience
17 Nov
Summary
- Man buried in avalanche, declared brain dead, but family's prayers revive him
- Suffered severe injuries, had to relearn basic skills, but rebuilt life as speaker
- Grateful for second chance, says accident made him a better man
In March 2009, Matt Potratz, then 27 years old, was a professional snowmobile athlete living his dream. However, a tragic avalanche incident in Idaho changed the course of his life forever.
Potratz was buried under the snow, his airway packed with snow, and his helmet ripped off. Doctors at the hospital declared him brain dead, but his family refused to give up. They gathered around his bedside, prayed, and begged for mercy. Miraculously, Potratz's eyelids moved, and he responded to his friend's voice, stunning the medical staff.
The accident left Potratz with a broken neck, shattered femur, three broken ribs, a collapsed lung, and severe brain trauma. He spent 88 days in the hospital, relearning basic skills like reading and walking. The physical and emotional recovery was extremely challenging, but Potratz's faith and family support helped him persevere.
Today, 16 years later, Potratz is a 44-year-old motivational speaker, author, and podcast creator. He has rebuilt his life, despite being left with a completely paralyzed left arm. Potratz believes the accident transformed him, making him a better man with more empathy and love for people. He has no regrets and is grateful for the second chance at life.
