REFLECTIONS | SHAUNA MOAR

Title

What Shauna Moar taught me about finding strength in adversity.

The Story

Shauna was told at just four years old that she would likely spend her life in a wheelchair due to hypotonia, a rare condition causing severe muscle weakness. Growing up, even basic movement was a struggle, and she faced illness, bullying and chronic fatigue. But refusing to accept the limits placed on her, Shauna rebuilt herself through strength training and determination. Today she is a competitive Strongwoman athlete, recently finishing 2nd at Scotland’s Strongest Woman, and now coaches others to build strength both physically and mentally — proving that the labels placed on you don’t have to define who you become.

Opening

Shauna told me that she wouldn’t have done this 2 years ago and mentioned that she might get tired quickly due to her condition. Something I’d never expected from someone fresh off winning 2nd place at Scotlands Strongest Woman.

What Stayed With Me

The conversation became emotional very quickly, triggered by what a doctor had told Shauna at 4yrs old. I’d never had this before so early on and felt really sorry for Shauna. These moments I really feel as it was still raw for Shauna. It is difficult as you want to understand more, and it really changed my conversation as I wanted to understand why it’s still a huge trigger for Shauna.

The Bigger Reflection

The word brave gets used way too often for people who share personal information online. I think it really fits with Shauna and what she has been through. This felt like a huge step, and uncomfortable one for Shauna. It really dawned on me that this was a unique moment for her, and I felt I had a responsibility to connect, be honest and in a way help throughout the conversation. It did feel like Shauna was still working through her past.

A Line I Won’t Forget

“There is no hope for her”.

This line really stood out to me. Although it was a quote that Shauna repeated hearing a t the age of 4yrs old, it had a big impact on the conversation.

Closing Thought

I hope…. actually, I know, that people will connect with Shauna on a deeper level. Having had to struggle early on in life, and do what was the opposite of her strengths at such a young age shows that there is a determination, a resilience that we can all find. But it comes with a price.