Strength shows not only in the ability to persist, but in the ability to start over
The eighth edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup is just a few days away. It is one of those adrenaline-fuelled times when aspiring athletes and sports enthusiasts harmonize to cheer for their favourite teams, while the best women battle it out to emerge victorious. While the entire world conjoins to see women try to accomplish their aspirations, I, Rianne Schorel live vicariously through the passions and dreams of the vigorous football teams who leave no stone unturned to script their victories.
I am a former soccer player who was inching towards my goal of being a part of the Dutch National Team, when a close shot by one of my teammates resulted in concussion and whiplash. During this heart-wrenching period of my life, I went from wanting to script a long, illustrious career in soccer to dealing with the inability to perform even the most basic functions of my everyday life. The innate fighter in me kept me from giving up.
Former celebrated professional American football player, and outreach director of the ‘After the impact fund’ , author of much-acclaimed book ‘Real men Do Cry’, Eric Hipple, describes Schorel as bright, positive, determined and an inspiration, who “not only made herself better, but was a positive influence for other patients and anyone who came in contact with her.”
Despite the lack of right treatment and prognosis, I took control of my ailment and adopted an individualised approach towards healing and recovery. My post-recovery brain scan was not just a pleasant surprise for my doctor, but also an epiphany for me. I was not only successful in charting my own path to recovery, but I had been able to inspire brain injury survivors like me, to be persistent and to never take ‘no’ for an answer.
I would like to use this opportunity to spread the word about my book and for female soccer players to be able to continue to play the sport they love “ soccer”. The surging interest in women’s football is a beautiful development. In today’s world, there is no dearth of opportunities and growth, while success is just within the reach of anyone who puts their mind to it. I want to inspire young women who watch the players fighting for their dreams, to reach their own and let nothing come in the way of their goals. It would be an honour to be a part of FIFA Women’s World Cup in France, and to use this platform for a meaningful cause that unifies women and motivates them to take the extra mile. I really hope I can make a difference.
About Rianne Shorel: A distinguished former soccer player and now an ambassador during the Women’s World Cup 2019. Rianne Schorel is a spokesperson for the ‘After the impact fund’, speaking up for people suffering from sports related brain injuries. Rianne Schorel has dealt with concussion for nearly 11 years. Life full of travails and her zest to overcome it – an extraordinary life she writes about in her inspirational book ‘Life With My Concussion’.
Rianne is also partnering with other brain health experts and advocates to draw attention to this important matter during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019, including Nicole Fisher of the Brain Treatment Foundation, and the after the impact fund. Learn more about Rianne Schorel’s journey during the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Contact info :
Name: Rianne Shorel
Personal website : https://rianneschorel.nl/
Business website: http://www.movethebrain.nl/
PR Representative: After the Impact Fund