It's been over five months since J.D. Graham nearly died in a car crash. Now, the country singer is back on stage, getting behind the mic because he knew he had to.
Videos by Wide Open Country
"I'm saturated with anxiety, everything feels different but I need to know what it feels like to get back to what I love," he wrote on Facebook.
What Happened to J.D. Graham?
Back in February, Graham was fighting for his life. A semi-truck struck the singer's car, which caused him to crash into another vehicle.
According to his daughter, Destiny, Graham was critically injured.
"The crash was severe, and first responders had to cut him out of his vehicle," she wrote on a GoFundMe page she set up. "He was taken to a nearby hospital and then life-flighted to a trauma center in Texas, where he is currently being treated."
Fans got an update on Graham's condition in May. He shared on his socials that he has been going to physical therapy and strengthening his core.
"I'm making progress slowly and getting stronger every day," he wrote. "I've been trying to play my guitar every day for 15-20 minutes and hope to post a video soon. My head feels like it weighs 1000 lbs and I found out my left rotator cuff is torn."
He also shared more about the extent of his injuries and treatment.
"I broke my neck. And a bunch of ribs," he shared. "My thoracic spine has been rebuilt with 14 screws and some titanium rods (T1-T7). My spinal cord was damaged and was leaking fluid and now has a patch. I am able to walk OK at this point and I am into a CTO brace 24-7 for up to 12 weeks. It's painful but I remain optimistic and grateful to still be here by the grace of God."
Graham's Optimism Is Starting to Pay Off
Graham made his triumphant return to the stage last month in Texas. He's played several shows since, but he is going to try not to overdo it.
"These shows were booked before my accident and I need to see how it feels before booking anything else for this year. I'm gonna mostly take it easy until next year. Thank you to everyone for the continued support."
