On an early February morning in 2009, Australian Navy Diver Paul de Gelder was mauled by a bull shark while performing a training exercise near the Australian naval base at Garden Island. The brutal attack nearly cost Paul his life. Both his right hand and leg were amputated.
Yet despite such terrible circumstances, Paul refused to give up. In an interview shortly after the attack, he made the following statement:
“I just try to go about my normal life. Training a lot is what I do, and I’m not going to let this get in the way of what I did before. You gotta look at the good things in your life and hold them close to your heart.”
The video below highlights Paul’s progress just 12 months after the attack. The words Never Ever Give Up appear in the final scene. I couldn’t think of a better way to describe Paul’s resiliency. His ability to bounce is beyond amazing.
Wow..
Wow, there really is no excuses for giving up. This man is amazing.
Truly amazing guy with an amazing attitude! To think most of us give up over such trivial things. And then you have someone like Paul who refuses to let life’s circumstances dictate who he is and what he wants to accomplish.
Inspiring stuff!
Great video Ross, truly amazing.
a true warrior,tremendous example of courage,passion and love of living each day to the fullest.respect
WOW this is truly inspirational! After seeing such passion and perseverence it really makes you think about how there are truly no limits to what can be accomplished. Thanks for sharing
Paul is a truly inspirational person, and highlights one of my favorite mottos in life.
The courage and resiliency of this man remind me of a great quote by Philip K. Dick:
“I mean, after all; you have to consider we’re only made out of dust. That’s admittedly not much to go on and we shouldn’t forget that. But even considering, I mean it’s a sort of bad beginning, we’re not doing too bad. So I personally have faith that even in this lousy situation we’re faced with we can make it. You get me?”
Thanks for the link.
Wow. Just wow
what a legend, he just competed in a race up the centre point tower (tallest building in sydney) i wish i was as mentally strong as him.
Amazing!
Paul – iron man.
Absolute legend!
This guy is a superstar!
Thanks for the inspiring video, makes me inspired to make sure I make the most of everything! Thank you!
amazing stuff man,truely inspiring
Just Wow. Thanks for the inspiration.
I am in awe – this man truly inspires me!