I JUST wanted to say how inspired I was by the story of the former Wanstead rugby player, Andy Barrow, (Guardian, August 7).

Not being a fan of the sport, I had never heard of him before or the awful injuries he had suffered.

The fact that he broke his neck and was paralysed 10 years ago is astounding considering he is now competing at the Paralympic Games in Beijing.

I think if I had been in his situation, and had my livelihood and my passion snatched away from me at the height of my career, I would have just given up and accepted a life of inactivity.

It always amazes me when people, like Mr Barrow, take a tragedy and use it to their advantage.

While I’m sure he was always a talented individual with a passion for his sport, I doubt he would have pushed himself as hard to reach comparable levels to where he is now, and I think that it’s amazing that he is now giving other injured players hope.

Good luck Andy and the team.

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