Reality TV star Nelson Thomas, from “The Challenge,” posted a video to social media Monday confirming he is opting to amputate his foot, one year after his horrific car crash.
The reality star underwent a variety of procedures in an effort to save his foot, but after a grueling year, he has decided that his best course of action is to proceed with amputation. “March 5th, 2023 remains vivid in my memory, a persistent presence in my thoughts. I consciously embrace it as the initiation of a new chapter. Opting for amputation, I am determined to own March 5th and redefine its significance in my life,” he wrote to his Instagram page.
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His video included a number of images of his foot and the gruesome injuries he suffered after his car crash in Austin, Texas.
At the time of the crash, Thomas claimed to only have had two or three drinks, but the results of a blood test done when he was admitted to the hospital revealed his blood alcohol content was .178. A reading of .08 is considered to be impaired, according to TooFab.
NEW YORK, NY – JULY 17: Nelson Thomas on stage during The Challenge XXX: Ultimate Fan Experience Q & A and Reception at The Roxy Hotel on July 17, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Lars Niki/Getty Images for MTV)
NEW YORK, NY – JULY 17: Nelson Thomas, Hunter Barfield and Tony Raines attend The Challenge XXX: Ultimate Fan Experience Q & A and Reception at The Roxy Hotel on July 17, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Lars Niki/Getty Images for MTV)
Thomas was charged with a Class A misdemeanor.
The video posted to his Instagram account summarized his struggle and documented his road to recovery. He explained how he came to the conclusion to undergo amputation, and explained that he had seen multiple doctors to see if there was any hope for a full recovery.
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Thomas explained he had also met with amputees before making his difficult decision.
“I think I’m at peace with it, and it’s time,” he said. “It’s time. I’m ready to move on with my life, and I’m ready to see the other side of the world.”
NEW YORK, NY – JULY 17: (L-R) Derrick Henry, Nelson Thomas, Cory Wharton, Chris “Ammo” Hall, Kailah Casillas and Jenna Compono attend The Challenge XXX: Ultimate Fan Experience at Exceed Physical Culture on July 17, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Lars Niki/Getty Images for MTV)
NEW YORK, NY – JULY 17: Nelson Thomas, Derrick Henry and Chris “Ammo” Hall attend The Challenge XXX: Ultimate Fan Experience at Exceed Physical Culture on July 17, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Lars Niki/Getty Images for MTV)
NEW YORK, NY – JULY 17: Nelson Thomas and Cara Maria Sorbello train during The Challenge XXX: Ultimate Fan Experience at Exceed Physical Culture on July 17, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Lars Niki/Getty Images for MTV)
Thomas seemed to have found new hope for a better life.
“Get ready, amputation world! I’m on my way! I am scheduled for surgery on March 5th, 2024,” he wrote to his Instagram page. (RELATED: Hayward Highsmith Crashes Into Man On Side Of Road, Leaving Him With Partial Leg Amputation, Police Say: REPORT)
The post included audio of a conversation with his doctor, who explained the surgery and the process involved.
His fellow castmates flooded his social media page with words of encouragement as he prepares to take the next big step on his road to recovery.