Our #SimplyFamily are so unique and amazing, we’re so proud of each and every one of them. All families are made up of different individuals with unique traits and stories, just like every other family. We love to celebrate all our members and are always striving to help them on their fitness journey and progress. We recently spoke to one of our most inspirational members, Zac France. His story always inspires us to want to do better and push that little bit harder. From getting a debilitating rugby injury that left him paralysed and in a wheelchair, to pushing himself back into shape and onto the rugby pitch again. This is Zac’s story on his road to recovery:
What happened that caused your injury and what did the doctors say?
I was in a rugby tackle and was dropped on my neck. The doctors said it was likely I wouldn’t walk again and to prepare myself for that.
What was your initial reaction and how did you feel when you got the news?
My initial reaction was to just cry. I was very fortunate that I had a great family to support me.
What sparked the motivation in you to know you could prove them wrong?
A mixture of my rugby coach who said I could do anything I put my mind to. And my friend and personal trainer Lawrence Tracey, who works at Simply Gym. When I got out of hospital he pushed me every week to always go a little bit further than I did the last time. Adapted every exercise and always pushed me to be the best I could be. Wouldn’t be here without him.
How long was your recovery?
All in all about 3 years now.
Do you feel more motivated than ever to keep active?
Massively so. I think I carry a bit of a chip on my shoulder about it all, which I probably shouldn’t. But it pushes me to make the most out of every session and when I’m resting to do something active. Unfortunately I tore my medial and cruciate ligament in a rugby game at the weekend so am now in a leg splint and crutches but intend on getting to the gym still!
We hope you’ve been inspired as we are from Zac’s recovery story. We can’t praise you enough Zac, you’re one of our Simply Stars! Keep smashing it! (But please be careful!)
