Adam overcomes great odds to lead a normal life

May 19 2011 by Shirley Bartynek, Hamilton Advertiser

A BRAVE Hamilton primary pupil who has been fitted with two artificial limbs has fulfilled a dream – playing for his school’s football team.

Adam Donnachie, age 10, was born with a congenital condition and has to wear prosthetic legs below the knee.

He has had to overcome many difficulties, including acquiring the skill of walking with the aid of artificial limbs.

However, Adam, a pupil of St Cuthbert’s Primary School, Burnbank, now plays football with the same zest and passion as all the other boys in the school playground.

And teacher Willie Sharpe is amazed and delighted by the courage which has been shown by Adam.

Mr Sharpe, who has been teaching for 36 years, said: “It was quite a strange experience to have one of my pupils saying, ‘Please sir, Adam’s leg has come off.’ It does happen from time to time and Adam knows exactly how to deal with it.”

It is testament to Adam’s strength of character and willpower that he was in the school for about three years before Mr Sharpe realised the full extent of Adam’s condition.

Recently, Adam asked if he could play for the school football team in a seven-a-side tournament.

Mr Sharpe was a bit apprehensive but let Adam go along as assistant team manager – much to the great delight of Adam and his family.

However, as the tournament progressed, as Adam was wearing his football strip, it was agreed with the other football team manager Adam could take part in the match.

Adam’s dream was realised when he finally represented St Cuthbert’s Primary School in a proper match in a schools’ tournament.

The icing was nearly on the cake when he hit a great shot that just slipped by the goal post.

Adam loves football and Hamilton Accies, and also enjoys playing with his Play Station.

Adam started swimming two years ago then joined the Clyde Valley Beavers swimming club.

He has represented the Clyde Valley Beavers in many galas since joining and has won many medals.

Adam went for time trials to represent the West of Scotland in the Scottish Junior Championships for physically disabled and sensory impaired swimmers.

He succeeded in the trials and represented the West of Scotland in two events. Adam won silver medal in his class on November 3, for the front crawl.

Now Adam hopes to represent his country in the Paralympics in years to come.

Mr Sharpe added: “Adam’s family and school are very proud of his achievements.”