The Day Everything Changed
It all started when I was playing sports—a passion that had defined my life up until that point. One day, while competing in athletics, I injured my back. The next day, during a cricket match, I dislocated my hip, an injury that would shatter my world. I was told by doctors that I’d never play sports again, and by the time I was 25, I would probably be on crutches for life.
At 16, hearing that news was devastating. Sports was my identity, and suddenly, I was faced with the prospect of losing the one thing that mattered most to me. I spent weeks on crutches, feeling defeated and unable to imagine a future.
Making the Choice to Fight Back
One night, after weeks of crying myself to sleep, I made a decision: I wasn’t going to accept the limitations that others had set for me. I decided that even if I would eventually end up on crutches, I would give myself at least four more years of doing what I loved—playing sports.
That decision changed everything.
I began to rebuild myself physically and mentally. Slowly, I returned to the sports field. Although I wasn’t yet able to compete at the level I once had, I focused on getting stronger and proving to myself that I could come back.
Defying the Odds and Achieving the Impossible
The following year, I was conscripted into the army. I wasn’t supposed to go due to my injury, but I made a choice—I was going, no matter what. Against the odds, I not only completed my training but went on to play provincial-level rugby during my time in the army.
Over time, my body adapted, compensating for the damage in my hip. I grew stronger than ever before. Today, at 69 years old, I’m still active and enjoying life fully—without crutches.
The Power of Taking Control
The lesson I learned from this experience is that life is what you make of it. Challenges will come, often when you least expect them, and sometimes they’ll feel overwhelming. But you always have a choice: will you accept the circumstances or will you take control and change your future?
It’s up to you to make decisions that empower you, even in the face of adversity. You can either allow obstacles to define you, or you can use them as opportunities to grow stronger, more resilient, and more determined.
What’s Holding You Back?
As you reflect on my story, I encourage you to think about your own life. What challenges are you facing right now? Are you taking control, or are you letting the circumstances control you?
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear about your journey and how you’re choosing to take control of your life.
