PAPILLION, Neb. — A Papillion La Vista High School graduate has more than just a diploma to celebrate this summer. Blake Mazur, 17, has made a remarkable return to sports after a life-altering accident last October.

Mazur’s life changed dramatically when a mowing accident resulted in the amputation of his right toes. Following multiple orthopedic surgeries at CHI Health, Mazur faced the daunting task of relearning basic skills such as walking, driving, and maintaining balance. His motivation throughout the recovery process was his desire to return to sports.

Through dedicated physical therapy at CHI Health Clinic La Vista, Mazur achieved his goal, returning to both the basketball court and soccer field for an unforgettable senior season.

“Getting back on the court, it was probably the loudest I’ve ever heard that gym,” Mazur said. “It was just a huge roar and it felt amazing and I know my parents, they were excited to see me out there.”

Dr. Nicholas Wischmeier, a CHI Health orthopedic surgeon, praised Mazur’s resilience. “He was so positive the entire time and he was very quickly able to accept what his new reality was and that allowed him to be very aggressive at rehabbing and ultimately achieving his goal to return to sport,” Wischmeier said.

Mazur graduated from Papillion La Vista High School in May and plans to attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in the fall, where he will major in finance and accounting.