RALEIGH COUNTY, WV (WOAY) – March 29, 2024, was a life-changing day for former Beckley resident Chase Treadway.
That’s when he had a devastating motorcycle accident that took his left leg and more, but not his spirit.
“I was in the hospital from March 29th to July, months just laying in a bed. I didn’t even sit up until the last month, probably,” Treadway said. “It was pretty rough; can’t lie. Mentally, it was hard. But you push through it. Had a fire under me ever since I got out of the hospital and knew I had to do something.”
Opening a car detailing business, Beckley’s Echelon Auto Studio, has given him purpose.
“It keeps my mind busy and gives us all something to do around here,” said Treadway. “I want to create something in Beckley for everybody to come out to, not just cars — like trucks, bikes, everything.”
Treadway has progressed since his hospital days, including sometimes walking with a prosthetic. There are still tough days, but he’s able to keep a positive attitude due to a great support system that always raises him up.
“Especially my mom, my grandparents, my aunts, everybody that was there, my friends, I had so many people that came to the hospital, like biker clubs came and prayed over me,” Treadway said. “Just knowing I have so many people watching, I guess, I can’t just lay around and be sad.”
Caleb Thompson met Chase months after his accident and calls his good friend an inspiration.
“I had the same style motorcycle he wrecked, and he tried to talk me into getting away from it,” the Echelon Auto Studio part-time detailer said. “So I got rid of that, picking up a drift car. I still have one of my motorcycles, but it’s a lot safer.”
While there’s no denying the adrenaline rush of a motorcycle ride, Treadway says, don’t be reckless on the streets.
“Try your best to take it to a track; it’s not worth it at all,” he said. “Try to always wear full gear. Don’t go out in a t-shirt. Always wear a helmet because you never know. We always think about this stuff in the back of our minds. But until it happens, it’s a different story.”
A survivor, Treadway says he won’t let his accident defeat him with much more in life to do. His friend, Caleb, attests to that.
“Praise to God; it’s a very uplifting story, I’m glad I can be a part of it, and I’m glad he’s still here so I could meet him,” said Thompson. “It’s crazy how life works. God always has a plan. And his plan for Chase is to inspire people and help them look at the other side. You know, you may not always see the light, but there’s a bend in the tunnel somewhere.”
