Model Spotlight: A Journey of Resilience, Service, and Inspiration

Meet Gam, a former Gurkha in the British Army and a standout participant in our Amputee Exercise series, now available on the Physitrack platform. In this heartfelt and inspiring interview, we talk with Gam to explore his extraordinary journey of service, recovery, and giving back. Gam’s story begins with his father, a role model military service ignited Gam’s passion for joining the Gurkhas. This decision would lead to a life filled with adventure, camaraderie, and personal growth.

However, Gam’s path was not without its challenges. A life-changing injury during a critical training exercise altered the course of his journey, but it didn’t diminish his spirit. Instead, it became a catalyst for a profound shift in perspective, teaching him the value of positivity, resilience, and the importance of helping others.

Through organizations like BLESMA, Help for Heroes, and the Poppy Factory, Gam has dedicated himself to supporting fellow servicemen and women, proving that life’s challenges can be a source of strength and purpose. He’s also an advocate for inclusive fitness programs, emphasizing the transformative power of tailored exercises for individuals with disabilities.

Join us as Gam shares his reflections on life in the Army, the power of community, and his mission to inspire others to see the beauty in the world, no matter the obstacles. This is a story of courage, hope, and the unwavering spirit of a true role model.

The Interview

Could you start by telling us a bit about your background as a Gurkha in the British Army and what drew you to this path

‍My background in the Army comes from my father, who served for 24 years in the British Army. During his service, I was born in Singapore. I saw my dad working and that inspired me to follow in his footsteps. I joined the British Army, and I loved and enjoyed it very much. I was injured during my service, but I’m okay and happy now.

It sounds like your dad was a role model for you. What was the process like when you signed up for the British Army?

Yes, my dad was a role model and I admired the work he was doing and how much he enjoyed it. Following in his footsteps made me happy, and I had a great time in the Army.

You mentioned you were born in Singapore. Were you living in Nepal at the time you signed up for the Army?

My dad was posted to Singapore with his regiment when I was born. When my dad moved to other countries, I went with him and my family. There is also a strong historical connection between Nepal and the British Army, particularly with the Gurkhas. The Gurkhas began joining the British Army in 1815. My regiment was formed in 1817, initially called Cuttack Legion. In 1901, it became the Sixth Gurkha Rifles. Then, in 1959, the Queen granted her name and title to the regiment, and it became The 6th Queen Elizabeth Own‘s Gurkha Rifle.This year, in 2024, we celebrate our 207th anniversary. Every year, we gather to celebrate, meet old friends, eat, drink, and dance together!

What did you love most about your service in the British Army?‍

I loved traveling with my regiment to different countries, gaining experiences, and making friends. For example, when I was in Germany, I made friends with German soldiers. When I went to France, I met French soldiers. Meeting soldiers from different countries and building those connections made me happy.

I understand you sustained a life changing injury during an essential training exercise. Are you happy to to tell us a bit about that and where you were at the time?

Yes, this was a training exercise. It was a crucial part of the training, where soldiers learn about British ammunition and weapons used in the Army. I was injured during a course called SCBC (Section Commander Battle Course). This is an important course for soldiers as part of their career development and involved learning how to use ammunition and weapons.The incident happened on February 19, 1987. During the course, I lost my hand, my hearing, and my eyesight. Despite these injuries, I’m okay and happy now, living my life with my family.

How did the experience change your perspective on life, and how has it affected you moving forward?

The experience taught me to enjoy life and focus on what makes me happy. Despite my injuries, I’m still working on my second career and staying active. When I’m free, I engage in activities that keep me fit, allow me to meet new people, and bring happiness to my life.

It sounds like exercise, family, and friends have been crucial to your recovery. Is that correct?

Yes, absolutely!

Have you had any role models during your recovery journey?

My dad was a role model for joining the Army, but after my injury, I became my own role model. I had to learn to live in this beautiful world despite what had happened to me.

That’s a powerful perspective. You’ve also become a role model for others. Have you worked with other ex-servicemen with injuries?

Yes, I’m a member of BLESMA (British Limbless Ex-Servicemen's Association), Help for Heroes, SSAFA, and our own Nepalese association. I also volunteer as an assistant guide at the Poppy Factory and work with “Save the World,” an organization that collects surplus food from supermarkets and distributes it to hospitals, the elderly, single mothers, and disabled people.

That’s admirable work. Do you also support newly injured ex-servicemen?

Yes, when we gather, it feels like a big family. We support each other and build happiness together.

What advice do you give to people with life-changing injuries?

Staying positive is important. If you think positively, you can see the beauty in the world. So when you go out, you can see the beautiful world because you don't know what will happen tomorrow or later. So enjoy your life, because if you enjoy it as much as you can, that will make you happy and healthy and safe. So that is what I want to say to the people.

What has your experience been like with Physitrack?

In the Army, exercise is essential. Through Physitrack, I learned new exercises that I can do even while working in the office. These exercises have helped me stay fit and feel younger.

Why is representation important in exercise programs, particularly for people with amputations or disabilities?

It’s important not only for those who are injured, but for everyone to see that they can stay strong and fit through tailored exercises. These programs show that people can still achieve fitness and well-being regardless of their challenges. You can see that even if you have no hand, or leg or you’re having problems with your back, you can still achieve your goals.

Do you think these exercises could have made a difference in your own recovery should this resource have been available to you at the time?

Yes, they’ve changed my life, and I recommend them to others. They can improve health, well-being, and confidence.

Can you describe your experience on the day you joined the studio for filming?

I remember arriving in the morning and being warmly welcomed by everyone. They made me feel like family. I enjoyed and learned a lot, and I’m ready to help with exercises in the future if needed.

Is there anything else you’d like to share as a final point?

I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. The exercises I learned have changed my life, and I’ve shared them with others, including people in Nepal and soldiers with a disability. It’s been a great experience, and I’m grateful to everyone involved!

Key Insights for Physiotherapists from Gam's Journey

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Gam’s journey demonstrates the power of resilience and positivity after life-changing injuries, offering a real-world example of how mindset can shape recovery and personal growth.

The Importance of Representation in Fitness

Inclusive exercise programs that feature individuals with disabilities, like Gam, inspire patients by providing relatable role models, boosting confidence, and encouraging engagement in tailored fitness routines.

The Transformative Impact of Tailored Exercises

Gam highlights how Physitrack’s programs have improved his fitness, health, and well-being, showcasing the effectiveness of personalized exercise plans for individuals with diverse needs.

Community and Support in Recovery

Gam’s involvement with organizations such as BLESMA, Help for Heroes, and the Poppy Factory underlines the vital role of community in fostering recovery and mutual support among those with shared experiences.

The Role of Physiotherapists in Inspiring Patients

1. Physiotherapists play a critical role in helping patients see what’s possible, using tools like Physitrack’s Amputee Exercise series to provide motivation, representation, and structured support in their journey to wellness.
2. Help Your Patients Discover the Power of Representation
3. Gam’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative impact of inclusive fitness programs. For your patients, especially those with similar conditions, seeing someone like Gam can be incredibly empowering. Representation matters—it helps patients connect, stay motivated, and believe in their ability to overcome challenges.
4. Explore the exercises featured in our Amputee Exercise series, now available on Physitrack, and discover how they can inspire and benefit your patients. Start a free trial today to see how these programs can enhance your practice and support your patients’ recovery and well-being.

Together, let’s empower patients to achieve their goals, one tailored exercise at a time.

‍