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One Pottsville teen's miraculous walk across the stage

A Pottsville teen is celebrating a major accomplishment – one that he and many others consider a miracle.

POTTSVILLE, Ark. — A Pottsville teen is celebrating a major accomplishment – one that he and many others consider a miracle.

Doctors said Drake Maness would never walk again after a diving accident last June. He proved them wrong on Saturday as he walked across the stage to receive his diploma from Pottsville High School.

RELATED: Drake Maness joins Pottsville Apaches after months of recovery from spinal injury

“We didn't know if I would even make it here,” Maness said.

Drake has defied the odds throughout his recovery. His senior year began at the Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, Maryland.

“Once we got to Baltimore and school started back, Drake not only had to do therapy to learn how to walk again, but he also had to attend school so he could stay on track for this very day, so he would be ready to graduate on time,” his dad Clint said.

Upon returning home, Drake’s hard work continued in therapy and the classroom. He says those efforts, a positive attitude, faith and community support ultimately helped him reach graduation.

Prior to receiving his diploma, Drake delivered this year’s commencement address.

“I will never forget the impact so many of you have had on my life, rallying around me and lifting me up has made it possible for me to stand here today,” he said.

As Drake crossed the stage, precious steps— once deemed impossible—marked the start of a new challenge that will allow him to help others defy odds much like he did.

“I’m starting at Arkansas Tech in the fall and studying rehab sciences to become a physical therapist,” he said.

RELATED: 'I hit the bottom & knew I was paralyzed' | Arkansas teen defies odds, becomes true walking miracle

The Maness family will host a 5k race on June 15th— exactly one year after the accident. Drake plans to run as part of his therapy and to raise money for the newly established "DrakeStrong" scholarship fund. 

Visit the “Pray For Drake” Facebook page for more information.

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