Despite undergoing 17 surgeries following his horrific leg injury in November 2018, Alex Smith hopes to return to the playing field of the NFL. The Washington Redskins quarterback turns the age of 36 Thursday and his wife, Elizabeth Smith, shared an inspirational video of him working out.
Mrs. Smith also posted an heartfelt message along with a photo or the couple together.
“Happy Happy Birthday to this handsome, hard working man. The last week we’ve been overwhelmed with love, support and sweet messages. We cannot thank you enough. #project11 was a look into what the last 18 months have been (mostly Alex refusing to give up). I am in awe of his perseverance everyday. He just keeps getting stronger and refuses to give up… Forever grateful”
Last week, ESPN’s “E:60” aired the “Project 11” documentary detailing Smith’s journey following the the leg injury. Due to the severity of his spiral and compound fractures, Smith developed infections in his leg, including a flesh-eating bacteria. The documentary showed graphic images of his leg during and after the infections ravaged through his leg.
Smith endured 17 surgeries in the doctors’ efforts to save his leg and his life. He was refrained to a wheelchair and external fixator for months before he was able to walk around on his own.
Despite the grueling circumstances, Smith hopes to return to the NFL. Seeing him in the video, being fairly mobile, running, doing cone drills and throwing off the run is amazing to see. It’s unknown when the video happened, but it’s no doubt Smith is working relentlessly to build himself back for a return to football.
