The family and friends of Elkmont native Grady Paul Taylor know firsthand that life can change in an instant.

At sunset on a seemingly normal day in late September, Grady Paul, an avid horseman, was thrown from a horse and suffered a catastrophic spinal injury. According to his wife Carol who set up a blog so friends and family can follow his progress, Grady Paul knew immediately that his neck was broken because he was paralyzed from the neck down upon impact.

Grady Paul was taken by MedFlight to Huntsville Hospital and admitted to the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. In the days that followed, he underwent two surgeries — one to remove the disk pinching his spinal column and one to fuse the spine. The surgeon gave Grady Paul a “very dire prognosis,” according to the blog. There is a 0-4 percent chance of him ever regaining any mobility. After hearing the news, Carol told the doctors “Now it’s in God’s hands.”

Grady Paul has been undergoing rehabilitation since the accident. Carol and his brother, Robert, have remained by his side. His family, including two sons, said they are taking it “one day at a time. One small success at a time,” adding “We have experienced many of those small successes already.”  They believe God has walked with them, if not carried them, every step of the way.

Grady Paul, known by friends as a vibrant, country cowboy, continues to keep the faith. Friends said it’s that faith as well as unyielding generosity that makes him stand out in the community. He is a member of Friendship United Methodist Church. In fact, after the April 27 tornadoes, he was busy in the community helping others.

His family said they would love to be able to respond to the numerous calls from people all over the South asking how they can help. Family members said they would like to thank the community for constant prayers and loving inquiries.

The outcome of this type of injury is life changing and the family’s future needs are uncertain.

A good Samaritan account has been set up for Grady Paul Taylor at any Athens branch of Bank Independent. Those who wish to make a donation can contact Bank Independent at 101 S. Clinton St., or 256-232-1776

To learn more about Taylor’s rehabilitation and daily updates visit gradypaultaylor.com.