Jeremy Renner speaks out one year on from near-fatal snowplough accident
If anyone is the definition of a warrior, it's Jeremy Renner.
The Marvel actor, 52, almost lost his life on January 1 2023, in a horrific accident while he was trying to help his nephew.
The incident saw a snowplough - weighing over 14,000 pounds - roll over Renner, leaving him in a 'critical but stable' condition.
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He suffered blunt force trauma to his chest, meaning the Hawkeye star had to undergo surgery.
Renner also suffered serious injuries to his legs when the snowplough crushed one of them but he was seen up and about on a treadmill just three months after.
It was undeniably close for the actor at one stage - with his doctor saying the machine came ‘within millimetres of hitting a vital organ or major nerve’.
But he's now well on his way to making a full recovery and has issued a statement on the 12 month anniversary of the life changing ordeal.
"I’m just so blessed that I have so many things to live for," he told CNN.
"I have a giant family, I have a 10-year-old daughter, I would’ve disappointed and really messed up a lot of people’s lives if I would’ve passed, and so there’s a lot for me to get better for.
"I’m also a pretty stubborn SOB and there was a lot for me to fight for, and recovery was just a one-way road in my mind."
In recent days, Renner has returned to Reno, Nevada, where the accident took place, and paid a visit to the hospital he was treated at.
Sharing a snap to Instagram of him smiling while in the driving seat of a Rennervation Foundation truck, the Mayor of Kingstown actor said: "Rollin through Reno, NV with joy, blessings, and [pizza]!!!!
"Stopped by to see kids/superheroes , first responders , and doctors, nurses and staff at Renown hospital Paying my respects and celebrating love, life and the blessings it brings to us all.
"Thank you and this community for keeping me here.. I’m forever in your debt with gratitude."
And his 21 million followers were quick to send Renner their own well wishes for 2024.
One wrote: "We are forever in their debt as well for the amazing work they did for you, as well as the work they do for the community each and every day!
"I’ll bet you made a lot of people’s days, kids and parents alike. Love seeing you paying your blessings forward!"
A second went on to gush: "You truly are a hero to so many! Happy New Year to you and your family."
Niamh Shackleton