Survivor's Tale Inspires

By Fabiana Vivaqua '14 and Philip McMichael '16

Brett Parks, a hero and gunshot survivor, spoke last week during convocation about recovering from multiple wounds he sustained while stopping a robbery.

More than a year ago, Parks was walking outside his apartment complex when he heard a man cry for help. He turned the corner and saw a robbery in progress. Reacting on instinct, he dashed forward and attempted to apprehend the perpetrator.

A struggle ensued, and Parks fell to the ground, hit by a close-range gunshot to the abdomen.

Parks was rushed to the hospital where doctors evaluated his condition and gave him a low chance of survival. After slipping into a coma for 20 days, and undergoing a dozen surgeries, doctors were forced to amputate his right leg.

Parks is now almost fully recovered, and he talked with Palmer Trinity School about his mental and physical recovery.

He credits his survival against the odds to God and to others faith in him. Parks is Mr. Mealeys stepson.