From death’s door to being recognized as the Pride of Britain, Fiji born Private Derek Derenalagi has shown that disability is not an inability.
Private Derenalagi, who is a British Army officer, was on active duty in Afghanistan in 2007 when the contingent he was with was attacked while on patrol in the Helmand Province.
During the horrific explosion, Derenalagi lost both his legs and was badly injured.
In Fiji for the launch of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal tonight, Derenalagi while speaking to Fijivillage said that the explosion was the turning point in his life.
Derenalagi added that it was a struggle to remain positive but falling back on his upbringing in Fiji where people are known for their positivity and friendliness, he along with his wife Ana managed to pull through.
He added that getting recognized for helping fellow British Army officers scarred while on duty was a humbling experience for him.
Private Derenalagi gets around on specially designed limbs and at the moment is training to represent the United Kingdom in the 2012 Paralympics in Discus and Shot put.
The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal will be co-launched by Private Derenalgi and the British High Commission at 7pm tonight.
Story By: Paradise Tabucala
Disability not an inability
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