TAMPA, Fla. — An Australian soldier is traveling thousands of miles to participate in the Warrior Games in Tampa.
- Private Seth McKay of the Australian Army suffered a stroke last year
- Stroke left him partially paralyzed, lost his memory, ability to talk
- McKay will compete in archery, wheelchair basketball, more
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Private Seth McKay of the Australian Army will compete in archery, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, shot put and volleyball.
“It’ll be a good thing,” said McKay. “I’m very much looking forward to competing over there.”
The Australian rifleman suffered a stroke last year. He was paralyzed on his right side and lost his memory.
He couldn’t walk nor talk. He couldn’t remember his family.
“It’s a miracle,” said his wife, Rachael McKay. “It’s a miracle that my husband is with us today.”
Since then, McKay has struggled to relearn his old way of life. He said the Warrior Games feels like a reward for his achievements.
In fact, it has already helped him to remember his love for competition.
“I didn't remember being competitive until I started playing a game or getting timed when set upon me, and I'm like, let's see who we could beat,” McKay laughed.
He said their struggles have taught the family to live in the moment. That’s why they’re using their life savings so the entire family can attend the Warrior Games to support their husband and dad.
“I guess it’s a celebration for us,” said Rachael. “A celebration of the miracle that’s happened and the medical achievements that he's made, the fact that we’ve gotten through it. It’s still ongoing, but there’s light at the end of every tunnel.”
The McKays are hoping to make a vacation of the competition as well.
The family has set up a GoFundMe page for those who would like to help with the trip. To learn more or to make a donation, visit https://www.gofundme.com/warrior-games-family-trip.