What happens when the life you knew is shattered in an instant, yet resilience after injury keeps the story going?

Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with Lisa Lacey in the USA about my journey from the accident that changed my life at eighteen to where I am today.

Injury and recovery

In June 1983, I was struck by a stolen car travelling at roughly 60 mph. I suffered catastrophic injuries to both legs and spent six months in a wheelchair and twelve months in full plaster casts. The impact shattered my confidence and changed my daily routines.

I was told I might never walk properly again, a reality that shaped my resilience after injury. Yet I learned to adapt through rehabilitation, support from family, and a stubborn determination to recover. I attended physio sessions daily, followed a strict programme, and gradually rebuilt strength and balance.

Four decades later, I’m still here.

Return to elite powerlifting

That journey into powerlifting began after a 12-year retirement. Ultimately, it led to elite competition and new world records.

That journey also demonstrated resilience after injury. Additionally, I achieved six simultaneous world records, including a Guinness World Record for a 285kg deadlift at 86kg bodyweight.

However, the conversation with Lisa wasn’t simply about records or lifting weights.

Moreover, we discussed what happens after the initial crisis—rebuilding your life and adapting to unexpected circumstances.

We also spoke about finding a new sense of identity and purpose, and about resilience after injury shaping your future.

We also talked about resilience and how it is often much more complicated than simply refusing to quit.

It was a very honest conversation, and I enjoyed it.

You can watch the full interview below.

Watch the interview

https://www.linkedin.com/events/resilienceafterinjurywithliambe7508492301699145728/theater

Thank you to Lisa for the conversation and for giving me the opportunity to share my story with her audience.