REFLECTIONS | BECCA THOMSON

Title

What Becca Thomson Taught Me About Life After Amputation

The Story

Inspired by her dad, Becca grew up driven and competitive, from rowing and judo to strongwoman. After an abusive relationship and a near-fatal car accident that led to an arm amputation, she now lives with PTSD and ongoing injuries. Through it all, Becca faces each day with grit, resilience, and determination.

Opening

This was the first time I had someone else sit during a guest interview. It was her husband Dan. He was recovering from a head injury after a serious motorbike accident and we had moved the podcast a number of times due to this. This was the second setup and I was nervous that Becca had other responsibilities on her hands and might not show. 

What Stayed With Me

Although Becca looks young, she had a maturity to her. Also a sense that she was carrying a weight on her shoulders. I felt a nervousness about her. I was nervous. Sharing a story that you may not have relived through a long conversation can be a trigger. I am always aware of that, but feel everyone who agrees to sit and have a conversation wants to share their story.

The Bigger Reflection

Physical adversity. I am not a fan of categories, but, it does help to signpost the subjects as the project grows. This episode really hits home about this category. It actually could come under a few other categories as Becca has suffered a traumatic event, which has had one of the biggest impacts to her life. She has used the change as a positive one, but she still suffers the knock on affect of her injuries everyday.

A Line I Won’t Forget

“Just tell my family I love them”

I think this has to be one of the most emotional lines I’ve ever heard. Faced with thinking that these are your last moments on earth, has to change you as a person. This is a moment you can’t imagine what you would do or say, until you are faced with that decision.

Closing Thought

I think we all try hard, and tell ourselves to live in the moment, to love everyday like it’s our last. Listening to Becca tell her story couldn’t be any more or a message to do this. Do we, or will we, that’s up to us. You have a choice.