Sam Ward

Sam Ward is a British hockey player who has represented England and Great Britain scoring an incredible 72 goals in 126 caps. He's a Commonwealth Games bronze medalist, and played for Team GB at the Rio 2016 Olympics. While following his ambition is to represent his country again at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, Sam's hopes of a second Olympics were dealt a hammer blow when he was struck by a ball in the face during an Olympic hockey quantifier. After extensive surgery to rebuild his injured face, Sam found out the life changing news, the damage to his left eye was irrepairable. He wouldn't be able to see out of it again. For a time, he thought his career in hockey was over. But through sheer determination, and huge strength of character, Sam has come through the dark times, overcome the many doubts and is back playing again. Sam's story is one that should inspire all of us facing life changing events, and show us that even when it feels like the end, it doesn't have to be. If you have been through life events similar to those described in this episode and you need someone to talk to, please contact The Samaritans, on 116 123 And if you'd like to share your thoughts with Simon, he'd love to hear from you: Twitter @SimonThomasSky