Jim Wright and Sherry Share Their Story of Resilience

Texas Railroad Commissioner Jim Wright describes his wife, Sherry, as more than just a partner; he considers her his best friend. In a newly released video from American Border Story, he mentioned, “We’ve never been apart. We’re better together than apart.”

This marks the couple’s first public sharing of the life-altering accident that left Sherry permanently paralyzed in 2017. They reflect on how a typical morning took a dramatic turn, forever changing their lives.

Sherry reminisces about the day they first met while working in San Antonio, noting how her desk was conveniently situated across from the men’s restroom. She recalls how everyone else found her easy to talk to—everyone, that is, except for Jim. Jim, on his part, admits he was immediately struck by her beauty. “I remember seeing her there and thinking she was the most beautiful woman I had ever laid eyes on,” he said.

Their friendship blossomed over time, culminating in marriage during Las Vegas’ National Finals Rodeo. “Started as friends, became best friends, then became my wife,” Jim elaborated.

Then came January 9, 2017, shattering what was supposed to be a routine day. Sherry had just dropped off their youngest son at school and was heading home when she was involved in an accident just a mile away. She recalled the shocking experience of feeling trapped and waking up amidst the wreckage, noting, “I remember being out of breath… looking up and seeing glass in my eye.” Jim rushed to the scene, only to later learn that his wife was paralyzed.

Emotionally devastated, Sherry expressed her feelings about her new reality. “I’ve worked all my life and taken care of children. It changed everything. It basically took over half of my life,” she explained.

The couple discussed how Sherry has struggled with her independence since the accident, adapting to life at home while grappling with feelings of invisibility in public. “When I go around, they don’t talk to me; they talk to someone next to me,” she pointed out. “Just because I can’t move my arms and legs doesn’t mean I’m not human. You deserve respect.”

Connecting their personal experience to broader issues, Jim and Sherry expressed their concerns regarding illegal immigration and border security. Sherry stated, “Families who have been victimized by illegal immigrants crossing this border should never have had to go through this. We don’t want you to come here. Just come here legally.”

Jim believes the issues extend beyond individual incidents, emphasizing that understanding and controlling cartel activity in Mexico is crucial for meaningful change. Despite their struggles, the couple remains committed to moving forward, bolstered by the support of their families.

Sherry shared a hopeful perspective, saying she feels fortunate to have family around to support her rather than being isolated in a nursing home. Jim added, “You can’t sit there and try to shift the blame onto everyone else. You have to make the best of the situation, but it gets easier as time goes on.”