After 14 Years Of Marriage, Husband Leaves His Wife Upon Learning She Will Never Walk Again—What The Wife Did Next Is Heartbreaking

Note: This story, originally reported in August 2017, is being republished.

In a remarkable account of determination and recovery, Riona Kelly, a 37-year-old from Halifax, Yorkshire, overcame a spinal stroke that left her paralyzed from the waist down. The life-altering event occurred in March 2015, leaving her facing the grim possibility of never walking again.

After being rushed to the hospital, Riona was faced with the harsh reality of her condition. The situation was made even more difficult when, just five days into her hospital stay, her husband chose to end their marriage, leaving her grappling with both physical and emotional challenges.

“I was unhappy in my marriage, but we had built a life together and had responsibilities,” Riona reflects, noting the profound sense of abandonment during a time when she needed support the most.

Doctors initially gave a bleak prognosis, suggesting that walking again might be impossible. Confronted with life in a wheelchair, Riona struggled with feelings of despair and questioned her will to continue.

Despite these obstacles, Riona’s determination shone through. With extensive physiotherapy and sheer willpower, she achieved a significant milestone by taking her first steps on a parallel bar, marking a powerful personal victory.

Her consultant was astonished by her progress, given the earlier predictions. After four months in the hospital, Riona returned home, where climbing and descending 16 steps remained a considerable challenge. Driven by her love for her children, she faced these challenges head-on.

During her rehabilitation, Riona met Keith Mason, a 35-year-old personal trainer. Their professional relationship grew into a personal one, evolving into love. The couple has now been together for 11 months, blending their families and finding joy in their new life together.

Riona’s journey of recovery saw her completing two marathons in her wheelchair and eventually walking without assistance. Although she still uses her wheelchair for longer distances, she embraces her new opportunities and strength, attributing her transformation to love, resilience, and an unbreakable spirit.

Riona’s former husband clarified that he had sought a divorce before her stroke and that he continued to support her and their children during that difficult period. Both have since moved on and built separate lives.

Sources: The Sun