The Accident That Changed His Life

On September 27, 2019, 19-year-old Lorne Schwerz was working on a bridge reconstruction project in Montana. What started as a normal workday quickly turned into a life-altering nightmare. While operating a forklift, Lorne suddenly veered too close to the edge of the bridge. Passing cars ignored traffic signals, and the lane was narrow, leaving him almost no room to maneuver.

In an instant, the ground beneath him collapsed, and the massive forklift tumbled three times down a slope, pinning Lorne beneath it. He tried to jump clear, but his foot was caught by the seatbelt, leaving him completely trapped. Miraculously, throughout the ordeal, he remained fully conscious, witnessing every terrifying second as the forklift landed on his hip and right forearm.

Catastrophic Injuries

The accident left Lorne with devastating injuries: the complete loss of his right forearm and hand, fractures to his clavicle and shoulder, and severe trauma to the lower half of his body. He also developed a pulmonary embolism and required a breathing tube to survive.

Doctors recommended a hemicorporectomy, an extremely rare and complex surgical procedure that removes the lower half of the body to save a patient’s life. The decision was unimaginably challenging, both physically and emotionally—but Lorne bravely agreed, prioritizing survival above all else.

Extraordinary Courage

Despite doctors’ warnings that survival was unlikely and their frank conversation with Lorne’s then-girlfriend, Sabia Richee (now his wife), Lorne miraculously lived. His story is not only a testament to physical resilience but also a shining example of the human spirit’s strength and determination.

Sabia shared:

“Everyone wants to see the world through Lorne’s eyes, but no one wants to be in his shoes.”

Her words capture the profound reality of his experience—the unimaginable pain, fear, and the struggle of adapting to a life-altering disability.

Recovery and Documenting the Journey

After surgery, Lorne and Sabia made the courageous decision to document his recovery journey. Over three years, they filmed nearly 13 hours of footage, editing it into a 57-minute video that chronicles his physical rehabilitation, emotional resilience, and adaptation to life after losing most of his lower body.

The documentary opens with Lorne at a rehabilitation center and follows his journey through small victories, challenges, and moments of both joy and struggle. The video concludes with a heartfelt message:

“It’s been a long and wild journey. We don’t know where life will take us next, but we hope you’ll join us along the way.”

Overcoming Daily Challenges

Life after the accident presented enormous physical and emotional challenges. Lorne had to learn how to navigate the world without his lower body and right hand.

Yet with dedicated support from rehabilitation specialists, his family, and his wife, he regained a level of independence and began to reconnect with life, finding new purpose and joy in daily living.

An Inspirational Message

Lorne’s story serves as a powerful reminder that even when facing the most extreme adversity, human resilience and determination can prevail.

Through their videos, Lorne and Sabia aim to inspire and educate others, emphasizing that recovery is possible even after severe injuries and that family and community support are vital for both physical and emotional rehabilitation. Sharing personal experiences not only brings hope to the individual but can also motivate countless others, showing that even in the darkest moments, hope and determination can create miracles.

Those facing serious accidents can learn from Lorne that acceptance of circumstances, collaboration with medical professionals, commitment to rehabilitation, and relying on family support are essential for finding the best path forward and living a full life again.

The story of Lorne Schwerz, the American worker crushed by a forklift but miraculously alive, is a testament to courage, resilience, and the human spirit.

From staying conscious during the accident, making the brave decision to undergo hemicorporectomy, to rebuilding his life and sharing his journey with the world, Lorne exemplifies overcoming unimaginable challenges.

By sharing their story, Lorne and Sabia not only document an extraordinary recovery but also inspire anyone facing life-changing adversity, reminding us all that determination, love, and resilience can overcome even the most impossible obstacles.