In the summer of 2022, Ben Eder, 24, was attempting The Grand Traverse in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, when he slipped and tumbled roughly 300 feet. He was rescued by helicopter and after spending 4 weeks in the intensive care unit in Idaho, he was then taken to Craig H. Neilsen Rehabilitation Hospital at the University of Utah to begin his rehabilitation and recovery from a severe traumatic brain injury, a broken back, and two broken wrists.
During the long and challenging process of his inpatient recuperation, Eder had to relearn how to complete daily activities, such as writing, talking, walking and most importantly, running. Despite his difficult journey to a full recovery, he made a goal to run the 2023 Salt Lake City Marathon.
Eight months later, he achieved his goal and completed the marathon in just over 4 hours. 26 individuals from his care team at Craig H. Neilsen Rehabilitation Hospital were there to support him the entire way. Members of his team at NRH made t-shirts with a saying that embodied Ben's mindset while undergoing rehab that read “Team Ben" on the back. His care team, including physicians, residents, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists showed up on race day to support him, dozens ran alongside him, and others showed up to cheer him on as he crossed the finish line!
In this remarkable journey of perseverance and triumph, Ben Eder's story serves as a testament to the power of human resilience and the unyielding support that emanates from friends, family, and a dedicated health care team.
