Former NFL Spider's comeback story inspires
Tim Hightower, a 2008 grad and former NFL running back, spent four long years away from pro football following an injury that could have ended his career. At a Spider homecoming event, Hightower discussed his new book, A Dream Worth Fighting For, about finding his way back to the field.
Hightower, current alumni relations director for the Washington Commanders, experienced a serious knee injury in 2011 while playing for the team. He is the only NFL player to return to the league after spending four years away from professional competition.
“Life changes for everyone,” Hightower said. “We all saw in March 2020 how quickly life can change. I was right at my peak performance, peak in my profession, and the next thing I knew, I was being helped off the field.”
Hightower’s years of rehabilitation helped to manage the pain and regain strength. But his medical issues — a torn ACL followed by an infection that slowed his recovery — took a toll on his mental health.
"I was at my lowest,” Hightower said, “and it kept getting lower and lower. It was challenging navigating that, and I think other athletes will appreciate hearing my recovery story.”
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