Paralympic dream has saved my life

Lifter Liam's shot at glory after shock of paralysis

- BEN GRIFFITHS

SEVEN years ago, pro footballer Liam McGarry was scrambled to hospital after suddenly losing all movement in his legs.

He had to be cut out of the top deck of a bus after a night out with his mates, and despaired when he was told he would never walk again.

Now Liam has retrained as a weightlifter and will proudly represent Team GB at the Paralympics.

He told the Mirror: "Dreams of Paris 2024 saved my life."

Liam's life changed thanks to transverse myelitis, a rare neurological condition which causes inflammation of the spinal cord.

He said: "One minute I was a fit and fully able sportsman on a night out with my mates, I got on the bus, we went over a speed bump and my legs felt they were filling with concrete.

"At the end of the bus ride I couldn't stand. I had to be cut out of the top deck."

Liam added: "I was told I'd never walk again. I was telling my parents I didn't want to live. It was the scariest time of my life.