Show Notes
Sam Ward is a British hockey player who has represented England and Great Britain scoring an incredible 72 goals in 126 caps.
He's a Commonwealth Games bronze medalist, and played for Team GB at the Rio 2016 Olympics.
While following his ambition is to represent his country again at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, Sam's hopes of a second Olympics were dealt a hammer blow when he was struck by a ball in the face during an Olympic hockey quantifier.
After extensive surgery to rebuild his injured face, Sam found out the life changing news, the damage to his left eye was irrepairable.
He wouldn't be able to see out of it again.
For a time, he thought his career in hockey was over. But through sheer determination, and huge strength of character, Sam has come through the dark times, overcome the many doubts and is back playing again.
Sam's story is one that should inspire all of us facing life changing events, and show us that even when it feels like the end, it doesn't have to be.
If you have been through life events similar to those described in this episode and you need someone to talk to, please contact The Samaritans, on 116 123
And if you'd like to share your thoughts with Simon, he'd love to hear from you:
@SimonThomasSky
More from Life, Interrupted with Simon Thomas
This epsiode of Life Interrupted with Katie Price, was recorded in April 2021.
Libby Scott is fourteen years old. She loves hot chocolate, Taylor Swift and lives in Kent with her family. Her dad is a musician and Libby's mum is an education consultant and conference speaker.
Sixteen years ago, Matt Hampson was a professional rugby union player with bags of potential.
Dilly Carter may not be a name familiar to lots of people, but to the many thousands who follow her Instagram account DeClutter Dollies, she's very well known.
Charlie Corbett is a name that won't be familiar to many. But he has a story that should be heard by many.