Was Greg Abbott married before his accident? All we know about Texas Governor seated in wheelchair at Trump Inauguration

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, being seen in a wheelchair at Trump's Inauguration ceremony has sparked a sudden interest in his life. Here's what we know.

Yes, Texas Governor Greg Abbott was married before the accident that left him permanently paralyzed. Greg Abbott met his wife, Cecilia, while they were both attending the University of Texas at Austin. Their relationship blossomed during their college years, with a charming story of Cecilia serenading Greg from behind a keyboard during their time in the dorms.

The couple married in 1981, three years before the life-altering accident that paralyzed Abbott from the waist down, as reported by an essay on PapersOwl. In July 1984, Abbott, then 26 years old and preparing for the bar exam after graduating from law school, went for a jog in a Houston neighborhood.

During his run, a 75-foot oak tree unexpectedly cracked and fell on him, crushing several vertebrae, damaging his spinal cord, and leaving him permanently paralyzed.

Cecilia has been a steadfast partner throughout Abbott's journey, supporting him through the challenges of his recovery and his political career. In a Texas Tribune article, Kent Sullivan, Greg Abbott's lawyer who worked with him following his accident said:

“She was instrumental in supporting him in every way imaginable after the accident. She was a pillar of strength for him. It sounds like a cliché, but it really is true.”

The couple has been married for over 40 years.

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More about Gov. Greg Abbott's wife Cecilia Abbott

Cecilia Abbott, the First Lady of Texas and wife of Governor Greg Abbott was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas by a family of educators. She attended Thomas Jefferson High School and later transferred to Providence High School, where she joined the Future Homemakers of America chapter, reflecting her early interest in service and leadership.

Professionally, Cecilia Abbott dedicated much of her early career to education. By 1996, she had become the principal of the Cathedral School of St. Mary in Austin, a position she held until 2001.

That same year, then-Governor Rick Perry appointed her to the State Board for Educator Certification, recognizing her expertise and dedication to improving education in Texas.

In 2004, Cecilia transitioned from education to healthcare, serving as the managing director of community relations at Harden Healthcare, a company focused on senior citizen care.

Nearly a decade later, she returned to San Antonio to stand by her husband as he declared his gubernatorial bid. Cecilia and Greg Abbott share a daughter.

Throughout her tenure as First Lady, Cecilia Abbott has remained a staunch advocate for children, families, and community programs. Her leadership reflects her lifelong commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of Texans.