Ten Questions with Jack Eyers

As a movie critic with a penchant for stories of resilience and perseverance, I must say that Jack Eyers‘ journey is nothing short of inspiring. This man, born with a physical challenge, has not only overcome it but has transformed it into his strength. From being a two-time paracanoe world and European champion to a model, actor, and the first amputee to be crowned Mr England, Jack’s life is a testament to the power of determination and positive mindset.

35-year-old Jack Eyers from Bournemouth holds the titles of two-time world and European champion in paracanoeing, is a model and an actor, and was the inaugural Mr England for amputees. In 2024, he will make his debut at the Paralympic Games in Paris.

As someone who was born with Proximal Femoral Focal Deficiency, or PFFD, in my right leg, I’ve certainly experienced changes in my life. How has this condition shaped my journey and experiences?

My femur lacked proper development, which affected both my knee and hip joints, making them underdeveloped and causing a limiting, restrictive feeling, similar to wearing a ball and chain. Being quite active in sports during school, my worsening leg condition gradually eroded my self-confidence, leading me to abandon sports. However, at the age of 16, when I had my leg amputated, I yearned for the chance to participate in sports again. Since joining a canoeing club eight years ago, I have found solace and excitement in the water.

How did you decide to have an above-the-knee amputation?

At around 11 or 12 years old, I encountered Louie Brownsell at a prosthetics clinic. He introduced himself as a “one-legged stuntman” and had collaborated with actors like Tom Hanks and Daniel Day-Lewis. Like me, he was born with a similar condition and opted for elective amputation of his leg. His story resonated deeply with me, shifting my perspective. I was faced with various alternatives such as bone elongation, reconstructive surgery, knee replacement, or hip replacement, but I insisted, “I want this leg removed.” Being a somewhat drastic choice, I had to persuade both the surgeons and my parents that it was the best course of action. My mother made sure I comprehended that if I ever changed my mind, there would be no reversing the procedure!

How did you feel afterwards?

Before my amputation, I felt greatly impeded. Now, I don’t consider myself disabled in the traditional sense; rather, I identify as an amputee. The term “disability” is a bit of a bugbear for me, as it encompasses such a wide range of circumstances and abilities that vary greatly from person to person. It’s crucial for understanding and support to be tailored to the individual, not a broad category. I don’t feel particularly restricted in any way. I am resilient, active, and physically fit. My leg does not cause me depression. However, my dyslexia has a more significant impact on how I perceive myself compared to my amputation.

What do you think of how disability is represented in the media today?

Nowadays, things have significantly improved. There’s a strong, widespread acceptance among the disabled community, where they proudly embrace their condition and maintain a positive outlook, which wasn’t common when I was young. Back then, the only characters with disabilities portrayed in media were typically antagonistic figures like James Bond villains or Captain Hook.

Ten Questions with Jack Eyers

As well as a Paralympian, you’re an actor — how did that happen?

When I turned 18, I signed up with a unique acting agency that specialized in working with individuals who are amputees or live with limb differences. I went on to play roles in shows like “Casualty” and “Holby City,” portraying injured characters, as well as appearing in horror and war films. In addition, I collaborated with the military on creating authentic reenactment scenarios for medical training purposes. If I didn’t possess my impairment, I believe I would have pursued a career in the military instead.

What about your modelling?

I contacted a modelling agency, Models of Diversity. Disabled people weren’t being represented within the fashion industry, so I started doing photoshoots for ASOS and Topman, and I was the first amputee to walk at New York Fashion Week. I was talent spotted for Mr England. I signed up, and the next thing I knew I was in the competition, and the first amputee to win. I wanted to challenge people’s perception of disability.

What inspired you to set up your personal training business?

Among the goals I set for myself, becoming a personal trainer was one of them. This wasn’t primarily about physical appearance, but rather fostering self-assurance and capability. Moreover, it was about extending aid to individuals dealing with disabilities or physical injuries.

What’s your training schedule?

Leading up to the Paralympics, I was engaging in as many as four training sessions each day, typically six days per week. In the gym, I focused on building strength and power, incorporating movements specific to canoeing. During my speed and endurance phase, I undergo lactic tolerance sessions – pushing through that intense discomfort to increase my ability to work harder for longer periods. This often results in me feeling nauseous and in pain! I’m very disciplined with my diet; I find that porridge provides the energy I need.

How does paracanoe work?

The watercraft I navigate is known as a va’a, which translates to “small boat” in Polynesian dialects. Generally, I paddle on just one side of the vessel. This 200-meter race takes place on calm waters, offering an exhilarating, swift and potent experience. During competition, I remove my prosthetic limb.

Are you excited about your first Paralympic Games?

Eager, eager!Determined andpreparedI’vehadtojoininhasaffectedmypeer,myacquaintances.Being a contender is quite zealous,as it’sallaboutyoung.For me,justqualifyingandhavingmyfamilyinParis –I’vealreadywon.

Paracanoe events start 6 September — coverage on C4, channel4.com/paras

2024-09-03 20:08

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