Marvel and action-movie actor Jeremy Renner is lucky to be alive, and he knows it.
The actor posted a picture on his Instagram to mark the two-year anniversary of the snow plow accident that nearly killed him. The image has Renner, in his hospital room, surrounded by his medical team.
He specifically thanked those same people, as well as everyone who got him help after his accident.
"I send out my love, respect, and gratitude for the army of people that it took to put me back together again. Thank you to each and every nurse, doctor, first responder… I literally owe you my life."
Renner was hospitalized for blunt chest trauma and bone injuries after his 3/4-ton snow plow ran him over while he was trying to help out a nephew after a Tahoe snowstorm. His injuries included broken legs, shoulder, clavicle, and the most life-threatening: eight ribs with 14 fractures, and more.
Renner's recovery was prolonged, as many orthopedic injuries are difficult on their own, even without the chest trauma. Still, the actor was able to return to his acting career with roles in Mayor of Kingstown and the third in Rian Johnson's Knives Out series, set to come out some time in 2025.
He is grateful to be alive, and for all the people who rallied around him in his time of very deep need.
“My gratitude list is very long. With the amount of love and prayers that flooded in from you all around the world (needing each and everyone of them), my family never leaving my side , with some divine intervention, a bit of luck and a whole lot of miracles …”
"I stand strong again. More Open. More Loved. More Connected. And f**king BLESSED to take my next step, to take MY NEXT BREATH. Thank you with every fiber and cell in my body. I love you ALL."
People sent their best wishes in the comments, including celebrities like Glenn Close, who is also in the newest Knives Out movie and had occasion to work with Renner closer to his accident when he was still arguably recovering.
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Members of Renner's family also chimed in.
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People were impressed by his determination in his recovery.
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Others were equally impressed with his resilience.
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Many folks joined in wishing him a happy (re)birthday.
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In addition to Glenn Close, others on set with him after his accident sent messages of support.
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The community of Tahoe is especially grateful for Renner, as he has a charitable foundation there, instead of leaving and never returning to what must be a place of horrible memories for him.
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Folks show their care in many ways, including in a recent post by Renner discussing snowfall in Tahoe.
Renner will continue his acting career, albeit not as action-packed as before, as he still needs fuel for recovery.