Daphne football coach celebrates with friends and family

DAPHNE, Ala. (WALA) - Daphne assistant football coach Jacy Todd was back in Alabama and celebrated his return with friends and family on Sunday.

Todd's wife Dyeatra Todd threw him a surprise birthday and welcome home party Sunday afternoon. Todd said because his car accident in August paralyzed him from the waist down, this birthday means a lot to him.

Todd went through rehab at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, where he began taking steps with the assistance of a walker.

“I don’t remember anything about the accident. I actually don’t remember anything until about August 27, so almost a month after my accident, I don’t remember anything up until that point,” said Todd. “It’s pretty surreal waking up one day asking a nurse what happened…finding out that way is a little different.”  

Todd said he is facing new challenges and obstacles he has to overcome everyday but he is surprised how quickly he has recovered.

He said he has high hopes of getting back to his profession.

"That's the only dream I have. It doesn't matter if it’s in a chair or in a walker, or if I'm walking without assistance, my dream is truly to get back and teach and coach," he said.

Todd said he’s going back to Daphne High School in January, but one obstacle he's facing is getting a new car. Because of his paralysis, he will need a specially fitted car, and it could cost around $70,000.

The family plans to have fundraisers but, if you'd like to help, you can donate to the "Jacy Todd Benefit Account" at any area Bryant Bank,