GABRIEL’S STORY
To watch Gabriel wield his bow, you would think archery was originally invented as a one armed sport. Meet former Navy corpsman and fast-rising Paralympic archer, Gabriel George.
Ten years ago, Gabriel woke up in a Florida hospital—A motorcycle accident put him in a three-week coma; an accident he doesn’t remember ever happening. The accident shattered his body and his life.
Over the next year, he had to relearn everything; feeding himself, walking, etc. Ultimately, doctors told him he would regain the use of his right arm, but that never happened. Today his arm is completely paralyzed. The only thing he feels is pain; sharp pain shooting like knives through his arm, all the way to his shoulder. The pain, brought on by the most subtle breeze or change in temperature.
The haunting tattoos across his chest and back are a symbolic act of defiance; something he did to take his mind off the pain.
ARCHERY
Which brings us back to archery. The sport relies on letting every distraction go. Gabriel’s ability to block out the pain while focusing on a small yellow bullseye 50-meters away is simply astounding.
Working with one of the best coaches in the world, his talent as an archer and commitment have him on course to make the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris.
Again, pretty great for a guy living with a bum arm. Here’s to Gabriel and his ability to turn tragedy into triumph.
Paul Tuft