“I never used the word disabled”

As an ardent admirer of Adam Hills, I wholeheartedly recommend adding The Last Leg, The Last Leg in Paris, or Adam Hills: Foot Fault to your watchlist without delay. Peering into his world from my armchair, I find myself captivated by the unique blend of humor, insight, and authenticity that he exudes.

Add The Last Leg, The Last Leg in Paris or Adam Hills: Foot Fault to your watchlist.

What’s the view from your sofa?

The largest, most comfortable couch faces the television. To its right, another sofa is situated, and to its left, a charming armchair. If I were to be dishonest, I’d claim that the seating arrangement allows people on opposite sides to chat… but in reality, it’s designed so everyone can view the TV.

And which seat is yours?

If my wife and children aren’t here in London, which is usually the case, I enjoy having my personal space right in front of the TV. I kick back with my feet on the footrest, a cup of tea in hand, making myself quite cozy. However, when they come over from Australia, I find myself sitting on the side sofa, as they take over the prime spot!

What was it like for you, having been born and raised in Sydney, and reporting on the Paralympics for Australian TV for the first time back in 2008?

Although I was born with only one foot, I’ve never identified myself as disabled. Initially, doctors predicted that I wouldn’t be able to walk due to my condition, but things took a turn when I contracted an illness as a baby. My parents were advised by their first specialist to create a prosthetic for me, which would allow me to live a normal life. They were instructed to treat me just like any other child – if I fell over, they had to let me get up on my own without coddling me excessively. Consequently, I never used the term “disabled” to describe myself.

2008 Paralympics served as an enlightening moment for me. What struck me was the fact that none of these athletes saw themselves as disabled; instead, they were all simply living their lives to the fullest. It was truly inspiring. As I watched fit, spirited individuals participating in sports, I felt a strong connection. Then, in 2012, when ParalympicsGB entered the stadium amidst fireworks and “Heroes” resonated through speakers for an audience of 80,000 people, it hit me – I aspired to be among those heroes. It was then that I understood, albeit reluctantly, that I too belong – yes, I am part of the disabled community.

At the Beijing Paralympics I thought, “I want to be part of that crew.” And then I realised, “Oh, I am! I’m disabled.”

It’s amazing how much change the Paralympics brings about, isn’t it?

Absolutely, it’s amazing! If a person of 42 years can watch the Games and feel honored by their disability – think about the impact on kids aged 12! Seeing someone like yourself in a position of success can inspire you to achieve the same. The importance of representation should not be underestimated.

What role does it play to have earned an MBE for contributions towards disability awareness, and how significant is the impact of your Channel 4 program, “The Last Leg,” in addressing societal stigmas?

As a movie enthusiast, you wouldn’t expect a Paralympics highlights show hosted by three individuals with combined four prosthetic limbs to spark awareness, but surprisingly, it did! Following our inaugural episode, I scrolled through Twitter to gauge the audience’s reactions. One viewer commented, “Is it appropriate to inquire about some of the disabilities since they appear able-bodied.” Another spectator said, “I find some Paralympians quite athletic.” In response, we developed a segment where viewers could ask their questions, and we’d do our best to provide answers.

You were very sporty as a child and you were close to becoming a Paralympian yourself?

At age twelve, I was given an opportunity to audition for the Paralympic Games. However, playing tennis wasn’t available as an option in 1982. Fast forward to the Beijing Paralympics in 2008. The wheelchair tennis coach proposed, “Would you be interested in playing wheelchair tennis? I believe your condition could qualify you for classification.”

After returning home, I met up with the leader of the Australian squad over coffee, who informed me that I would need to adapt to living life as if I were confined to a wheelchair for it to feel comfortable and natural. If I’m on a tennis court and a ball goes short, my instinct is to run with my legs – but I would have to learn to maneuver with my arms and wheels instead. However, at that moment in time, living in a wheelchair was not an option for me.

Previously, I discovered a global initiative called Para-Standing Tennis [a form of tennis played without wheelchairs] which led me to understand that many individuals are often overlooked. Consequently, I created “Foot Fault”, a Sky Sports documentary aimed at enlightening people regarding this issue.

2024-08-20 19:34

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