One year ago, I could not stand, let alone walk; to run was beyond belief. I had been attacked, pushed roughly to the ground and kicked and stamped upon, trying to protect my head, fearing death or, worse, brain damage. So many fears in so much detail flying through my mind so quickly, while the attacker stood over me, deciding which part of my body to break next. Then, he stopped. Taking stock, I assumed a sprained ankle and tried to stand. The leg collapsed. I tried the other and it collapsed, too. I escaped by hauling myself along the ground with my arms.
Casualty’s diagnosis differed from mine – two broken legs and sundry other injuries. A short stay in hospital followed, with a full bionic rebuild, not conferring superhuman qualities, but serving to hold bodily parts together while nature healed them. Nature and hard work. My physiotherapist, HB, had a streak of mischief and would, so casually, push me that little bit harder than I could comfortably achieve.
Before she moved away, HB started me on the treadmill. Only 10 minutes a session, but on maximum incline (what else) and this developed over time, until I could endure an hour, albeit at a rather slow speed and walking much of the time. Around this time, I was invited to take part in the BUPA Great Edinburgh Run, a 10 kilometre event around a rather hilly course. I bought some real running shoes and stepped up the training. My triumph was to complete the course, quite apart from being very pleased with my time. I was able to complete 10 kilometres more quickly than I had once struggled to totter the length of the hospital, clinging to my Zimmer frame. I read recently an article about a survivor of last year’s London bombings, who had lost her legs. I recognised many of the feelings she described and wept as they swept over me again and wept for her.
I have come a long way over the last year. Since the Great Run, I have completed another 10 kilometre event (in a slightly improved time) and have more lined up. I still run as a means of strengthening my legs, but also for enjoyment and a celebration that I can.
Comments
Short, succinct and very inspiring!
Pru Miller Friday, July 21, 2006 10:48:24 AM
An inspiring story of human will and triumph over your attackers inability to respect another human being, well done and keep running !
Leona Whitehead Friday, July 21, 2006 11:15:40 AM
This guy writes inspirationally! Talk about turning negatives into positives & without any hint of bitterness. I'd like to read more.
Steve Blackwell Friday, July 21, 2006 11:18:20 AM
This is an amazing story of sheer bravery and willpower defying the violence that has become part of our daily lives. I cannot praise Cameron enough for his strength and determination to fight for life with his legs rather than his fists.
Nadine Quercia Friday, July 21, 2006 11:39:42 AM
The courage and faith you have Cameron is startling. You are an insiration to us all. It brought tears to my eyes. More strength to these legs. God bless.
Ann Brunton Friday, July 21, 2006 12:13:26 PM
What a truly amazing story! Keep on smiling Cameron- your optimism is an inspiration to many!
Gabrielle Smith Friday, July 21, 2006 12:56:25 PM
Brilliant! Keep it up Cameron, you never know- I hear Scotland could do with some decent football players! ;-)
Kenny Dickenson Friday, July 21, 2006 01:41:00 PM
This is a very humbling tale - it reminds us to cherish what we have at all times but at the same time we are able to marvel at the human spirit and what amazing feats can be acheieved! Well done Cameron you super-human!
Nicky Cheeseman Friday, July 21, 2006 03:03:05 PM
You took up that baton and ran with pride and incredible strength to achieve the first of many goals......
Evelyn Cathalin Friday, July 21, 2006 03:31:17 PM
A wonderful tale. It's stories likes these that make me pull myself together and once again try to bend the world into a shape I want it to be rather then fitting into its. Well done.
James Sinclair-Smith Saturday, July 22, 2006 10:42:49 AM
Well done Cameron - very proud of you.
DG Miller Monday, July 24, 2006 10:08:54 AM
Your story is truly inspiring, Cameron. May you go from strength to strength.
Dan Pickard Monday, July 24, 2006 12:21:33 PM
You've made me cry. Something positive has come from evil. Well done! Keep us in touch with how you're getting on.
Anne Ferguson Monday, July 24, 2006 03:06:57 PM
Really amazing Cameron.. I don't know what sort of damage an incident like that does to you mentally but it can't have been easy to deal with. Sounds like you did deal with it though and on top of that you made a decision to go further. I'm happy that something good came from such a shitty incident. Well done.. what can I say.. you rock!
Emma Evans Monday, July 24, 2006 04:33:43 PM
Inspirational & moving demonstating your incredible strength and courage. Wow - keep running. Nat x
Nat Wednesday, July 26, 2006 11:42:34 AM
Wow - a totally inspiring and very moving piece. Congratulations for all you have achieved already - I'm sure you will continue and go on to prove how much stronger than your attackers you are. Cara x
Cara Lovett Thursday, July 27, 2006 10:01:01 AM