Train Victim Regrets Mistakes (VIDEO)

It was against the odds, but being given another chance at life has changed this former gang member and prison inmate. Now he's hoping the community can help his family by making donations at any area West Coast Bank.

Joseph Dominick Photo By: Tim King

(OREGON CITY) - Joseph Dominick of Salem made the biggest mistake of his life earlier this year, trying to board a moving freight train. But the catastrophic injuries he suffered could not overpower his will to survive.

I asked him if he ever imagined this being his life, `No, I never thought it would be like this before, breaking bones like the ones I`ve broken."

His casual smile does little to mask the pain Joe Dominick suffered when the train sucked him under its wheels. Salem Police said his survival was nothing short of amazing. The cold steel rails of the track offered no mercy when he slipped, trying to board the moving train that took a firm hold of his foot and pulled him in, `Broken ribs, broken pelvis, fractured hip, and my arm almost being severed."

`His back was broken in two places and I believe it is at least four rods, possibly six, in his back" his mother Christine Chambers added.

She has her own struggles. Christine`s car is unreliable and it is very difficult for her to move around easily. Still, she makes the trip to Oregon City whenever she can to visit and support her son Joseph, who she continues to have faith in.

As the trips add up though, her finances are having a hard time holding up. To help offset this burden, a bank account has been set up in Joseph Dominick`s name at all area West Coast Banks. This Salem family and their supporters hope donations and the generosity of the community can make a difference.

It was against the odds, but being given another chance at life has changed this former gang member and prison inmate. Now he`s hoping the community can help his family.

`If someone can find it in their heart to help me I`d appreciate it, they would be helping my family, my daughters and my son."

A tattoo of a tear meant to signify hard time served, has taken on a new meaning for Joseph Dominick, as tears from physical pain and the separation from those he loves haunts and motivates him to reclaim a life he never really knew. You can help the family by making a donation to Joseph Dominick at any West Coast Bank.

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