An Ocean Grove lifeguard has reached an important milestone in his recovery nearly four months after he was paralyzed from the chest down.

Sam Jarmer, 17, suffered a spinal cord injury after hitting a sandbar when he dove over a wave.

He says he felt relieved when he returned home Tuesday.

"It was good to be home--back in a place that was more familiar," Jarmer said.

After his injury, he had spent much of his time at Children's Specialized Hospital in New Brunswick working on his recovery. He says he now has complete control from the waist up and can move a few toes and occasionally his leg.

The New Jersey teenager has received encouraging messages from friends, sports stars and celebrities after a family friend created the Instagram account, "Samvincible," featuring pictures of visits.

There are now ramps to help Jarmer gain access to his home.

His mom, Jessica Jarmer, tells News 12 the situation could have been a lot worse.

"He's not using his legs but I still have my kid," said Jessica Jarmer. "He's still Sam."

Jessica Jarmer tells News 12 that he will undergo occupational and physical therapy several times a week and doctors are encouraged by his progress.