Plattsburg Grad Returns Home After Car Accident

On Thursday, December 2, Tanner Sims was released from the hospital to begin his life back home in Plattsburg. Welcoming him home were (front row, left to right) Mandy Lewis, Kathy Lewis, Jessy Lewis, Kelsie Lewis, Jacie Taber, (back row) Zach DeFreece, Jackson Lewis, Betty Sims and Frank Lewis.

There are certain days in life’s journey that change the direction of where our life is heading. For Plattsburg’s Tanner Sims, a graduate of Plattsburg High School, that day was September 24, 2020.

As he traveled to work along Plattsburg Road to his job at Teague Lumber Company in Liberty, he apparently fell asleep. This resulted in a serious car accident in which he was lucky to survive. The end result was he suffered a spinal injury that has left him paralyzed from the waist down.

Since that day, he has undergone several surgeries, along with rehab stints. His spinal cord was not totally severed, but the prospect of his walking again has been ruled out.

space in Plattsburg. His mother, Jessy, is married to KC Lewis of Plattsburg, and the new home is the result of KC’s dad, Frank Lewis. Frank, a contractor in Plattsburg, said that the building was in the process of being transformed into housing for seniors.
 
“The remodel for a handicapped person is different, but we had the space that could be transformed for a person who is handicapped,” said Frank, a 1966 graduate of Plattbsurg. “Brenda Norton has helped us determine the essentials to make it suitable, and her knowledge has really been helpful.”

Speaking of helpful, the outpouring of support from Plattsburg and even outside of Plattsburg has been remarkable. According to Mr. Lewis, several individuals who heard about his injury have stepped up to assist.

“Seth McKnight of Lathrop has set up a GoFundMe page, two young ladies from Hamilton who own a nutrition business have made a significant donation, and the Tiger Den in Plattsburg has become involved with donations,” Lewis said.

Of course, the Lewis family has stepped up and assisted in the rehab. Just as remarkable have been the offers of work for Tanner when he is able.

“There was a gentleman who visited with Tanner while he was in the hospital, and he apparently owns several companies. He said to let him know and Tanner would have a job when he was able,” Lewis said. “The Teague Lumber Company has contacted Tanner and they have said he has a job in the company when he is able to come back. Of course, it won’t be the same job, but one he can perform.”

According to Mr. Lewis, Tanner is already making plans to participate in the Para-Olympics when he has completed his recovery. During his high school sports career, Tanner was a standout and was recognized for his athletic achievements.

“The support of the community and beyond has been overwhelming, and I know Tanner is shocked and pleasantly surprised by how many have supported and cared about his recovery,” Lewis said.