HEBER CITY, Utah (ABC-4 Sports) – Just eight months ago, Jade Hafen wasn’t sure if he would be able to walk again.
After competing in a calf roping event, Hafen collapsed, unable to move his legs. He was eventually diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome, a dehabilitating nerve disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system and could cause permanent paralysis.
But through incredible determination and drive, Hafen has miraculously made a full recovery. He’s back on his horse competing this week at the Utah State Rodeo Championships in Heber City, hoping to make the Utah national team for the 4th straight year.
Seeing how he missed most of this season, Hafen considers it a longshot if he does make the team, but that doesn’t bother him at all. Surrounded by supportive family and friends, he’s just happy to be back at the place he loves the most – the rodeo.
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