Every cloud has a silver lining– and after a tragic accident that cost David Hall both his legs, he transformed his life, going on to become a gold-medal winning wheelchair tennis champion.
Mark Henderson, ‘Hendo’ on Monday Morning Matters aired a heart-warming story from late last year’s archives, about Australian Paralympian David Hall’s newly published novel ‘Superbeast’.
In 2019, Hall committed his time to writing his autobiography, completing four drafts within that year till his finalised manuscript. His story delves into the complexities and hardships of his life– whilst also highlighting the happiest of moments.
At sixteen years old, Hall was hitchhiking from his mother’s party; in hopes to go to another booming party full of teens a few suburbs away. After his original ride fell though, he decided to hitchhike and was unfortunately struck by a car.
“I was rushed to Gosford Hospital, but my injuries were so severe that they had to put me on a helicopter to fly me down to Westmead. Actually, whilst they were prepping me to get me up to the helipad, I actually died. Obviously they brought me back… and that started a whole journey where nothing can prepare.”
“It was like my life had been put in a blender. But not only that, but my mum’s life, my dad’s, my sisters and my friends.”
Hall had always played tennis during his youth, playing tournaments during the ages of thirteen to fifteen. However, after the accident, his once beloved sport became much more.
“I knew straight away that was for me. Like the first time I actually went out there and hit tennis balls from a wheelchair; it was mostly exhilarating, partly frustrating. But I kind of realised that there was potential in this.”
Have a listen to David Hall’s full story below.