Paralysed veteran running to save lives at ZERO600
A message from Invictus Australia
In Australia, it’s reported that we lose six veterans a month to suicide. At Invictus Australia, we don’t accept that and work to change this statistic by using the transformative power of sport to build social connection, mental fitness and physical wellbeing within local defence communities.
Our ZERO600 Challenge will help support our work to do just that. Running from 1 to 6 June, the objective of the challenge is simple yet incredibly impactful: rise by 6am for six consecutive days, complete an exercise routine with a friend, team, pet or by yourself, and show your support while getting active and connected.
Rodney ‘Rocket’ Cottam served in the third battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Army, for more than four years and is now, as a third time participant, an Ambassador for the challenge.
His life drastically changed in 2004 when he was involved in a serious motor vehicle crash while driving to his barracks in Sydney. The crash left him with a permanently paralysed left arm.
‘The crash left me with a number of serious injuries, as well as a long-term condition called Brachial Plexus Palsy, which is permanent paralysis of my left arm,’ says Rodney. ‘In the blink of an eye, I went from being an elite soldier, in the best physical shape possible, to completely losing all movement and feeling in my left arm, from shoulder to fingertips, ultimately ending my military career.
‘Since then, I've learnt that we're capable of so much more than we think. I chose to accept what had happened, move forward and continue to live my best life.
‘Last year, I signed up for the ZERO600 fundraiser to encourage others to push themselves beyond their perceived boundaries and give back to an organisation supporting veterans and families at the same time. The challenge reminded me of the resilience and strength I gained from the military and high level sporting experiences.
‘I encourage you to rise beside me and all our heroes – join me to remind yourself of your inner strength and determination to push yourself beyond your limits.’
Will you rise to the challenge and change lives? Visit www.zero600.com.au.
