Meet the Oklahoma State football starter who couldn't walk due to illness two years ago
Post-infectious encephalitis rendered Christian Bodnar unable to walk. Two years later, Bodnar is starting at safety for Oklahoma State.
Christian Bodnar, a cornerback for Liberty Flames, faced a challenging year in 2024 after being hospitalized with post-infectious encephalitis, a condition that occurs when the immune system attacks brain tissue following a viral infection. The illness left Bodnar unable to walk, and his return to the football field was uncertain.
Bodnar, however, exhibited an unwavering determination to return to his passion for football. Doctors feared for Bodnar's quality of life, but his family and coaches remained hopeful. Bodnar overcame the initial challenges and returned to practice, gradually regaining his strength and motor skills. His hard work paid off, and he returned to action in a game against Jacksonville State, where he made a memorable comeback.
Despite his significant health struggles, Bodnar's resilience and dedication to football became evident as he started at safety for Oklahoma State in the Big 12.
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