AN INJURED army veteran says playing sport has given him his life back after competing at an international sports tournament in the USA.
Joe Preston, 25, was a member of the 20-strong UK team which went to Florida to compete in the Warrior Games – a tournament which helps wounded service members and veterans to recover and discover adaptive sports.
He represented Team UK – supported by veterans charity Help for Heroes – in swimming, wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball and wheelchair rugby.
Although he didn’t return with any medals – and sadly popped his shoulder during his swimming race – Joe will go onto participate in trials for the Invictus Games later this month.
He said: “Being part of Team UK means that I don’t have to worry about myself. I have to worry instead about the team and how we’re becoming a better team.
“Instead of sitting there and saying ‘I’m not feeling well today’, I can just leave that at the door. I get in my basketball chair and go have a laugh.
“Basically you just leave things at the door. Playing sport has given me my life back.”
The former Royal Logistics Corps supplier was heartbroken to be told he would never be able to play rugby again when he injured a leg during a match, leaving him with chronic pain and significant discomfort every day.
But discovering adaptive sports reduced his anxiety and depression.
He said: “It’s given me a purpose again. I found people that understood what it was like living with an injury and I felt at home.
“Competing in the Warrior Games helped build my confidence and self-esteem. I’m really grateful that Help for Heroes have funded my basketball wheelchair as its enabling me to do much more training.”
Help for Heroes’ recovery manager Julian North said: “Throughout the last ten days of the games we have seen friendships blossom, confidence grow and competitors pushing their body to the limit.
“The Warrior Games has very much provided our veterans and serving personnel the opportunity to be part of a team again, something the military often miss after suffering a life-changing injury or illness.
“We look forward to welcoming Joe to his local Recovery Centre in Colchester very soon.”
Members or veterans of the armed forces who are wounded, injured or sick can visit www.helpforheroes.org.uk/get-support for support from the charity.
