By JOSH AULT
6 News Reporter
SPEEDWELL (WATE) - A Claiborne County Marine who was seriously injured in Afghanistan is on the road to recovery.
Marine Lance Cpl. Cody Evans was hurt in an IED explosion in December. He suffered a pelvic fracture and both of his legs had to be amputated.
After he was wounded, he was taken to a military hospital in Bethesda, Maryland.
Cody has been undergoing intense physical therapy. On Monday he was fitted with his first prosthetic leg and took his first step.
Cody's family is excited about everything he has accomplished. "It makes us feel good," said his grandmother, Lillie Mae Evans.
She was able to be with her grandson in January and hopes to return to Maryland soon to see him again.
"He was alert and talking, just normal Cody," she said. "He was still in good spirits."
As Cody heals, renovations continue at his home in Speedwell. The community has come together to totally transform the home where he and his mother, Regina, live.
The home now has an addition, including a new bedroom and bathroom, so Cody can have plenty of room to get around when he gets home. They also plan to build wheelchair ramps outside the home.
"Look at what he's done for us," said volunteer Ray Tipton. "It's the way you got to look at it."
Volunteers aren't sure when the renovations will be complete, but they plan to have the home ready when Cody returns.
"It's great to think there are people in this world that cares," said Evans. "It's just really great."
Right now, his family is not sure when he'll be back in Tennessee. They are just excited for the steps he's made.
"Thank you for everything you've done," said Tipton, "Wish it hadn't turned out like that. We do sure appreciate him."
"Hi Cody, I really miss you," said Evans. "I will be so glad when you get to come home."
There is still a lot to be done to finish the renovations at Cody's home. Right now, they need monetary donations to help pay for everything. They're also raising money for any unseen costs once Cody returns home.
If you'd like to donate or send Cody a card, you can use this address:
Cody and Regina Evans
P.O. Box 3475
Morristown, TN, 37815
There is also a Facebook page set up to leave messages for Cody.
Marine Lance Cpl. Cody Evans has been undergoing intense physical therapy.
On Monday he was fitted with his first prosthetic leg and took his first step.
