25 May 2012
Christian White, from Ebbw Vale, is a GCSE student who overcame a life-threatening cyst on his brain at the age of just 13, to rehearse for his school show just a week after emergency surgery. The surgery resulted in him having to give up his passion, rugby, but instead of giving up on sport entirely he is now realising his dreams through a new love in athletics.
He is one of the nine inspirational people that will be carrying the Olympic Torch through Caerphilly this Saturday (26th May) as it makes its way across Great Britain, in a relay that will engage people from all corners of our nation, inspiring and encouraging people to embrace their 'Moment to Shine'.
This is his story:
"My Parents nominated me by surprise because when I was 13 I found out that I have a cyst in my brain which meant me having to have emergency surgery. Less than a week after having surgery to the doctor's surprise I was back in school rehearsing for a school show of which I was a lead when I was supposed to be at home in bed-rest. I didn't want to let my teachers and fellow cast members down. One of the down sides was that I had to give up rugby, one of my passions, but soon after I was down my local track starting my new love, athletics. It was my maturity and calm attitude during this shocking and life-changing part of my life that made them think that I was a worthy nominee for the Olympic Torch Relay.
I was shocked when I found out I would be one of the 8,000 torchbearers! Just the fact that my story was inspirational enough to make it past the opening stages of nomination was an incredible feeling. I found out that I was carrying the flame during my school Christmas disco when my headmaster made an announcement in front of all my fellow students. The applause was deafening and it was a moment that I will treasure forever.
I can't wait to run past my friends and family on the day. I am going to be so proud of the journey that I have been on the past couple of year that has culminated in this moment. To share it with my family, friends and the rest of the world will be an unforgettable feeling.
For the torch to be in Caerphilly is great. It's great that many small towns and communities, such as Caerphilly, can all come together to make history. I think that Mount Olympus will have nothing on the backdrop of South Wales!!
It's great that other celebrations will be happening throughout the day, like the Food Festival and the Blue Peter Big Olympic Tour. This is a big event and many people are going to be there so it'll be great to continue the celebrations throughout the day. I can't wait to try some of the delicious food Caerphilly has to offer!"
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