Inspiring life story big help on multiple levels

After receiving a broken neck that ended a promising rugby career, then suffering several strokes and a brain tumour that rendered him unable to walk, Jason Barrell's life reads more like a tragedy than a success story.
But the former Super Rugby prop has made a habit of overcoming adversity, and now he's bringing his remarkable story to Hawke's Bay to benefit cystic fibrosis and Napier's Pakowhai School.
Waiohiki mother Claire Fisher first heard him speak at a conference in Wellington and said she was blown away by his heart and humility.
"The way he tells his story is so matter of fact. There's no self pity, he's just an ordinary Kiwi bloke who has this amazing story."
Mrs Fisher's daughter Amber has cystic fibrosis, and hearing Mr Barrell speak was an inspiration to her and her family.
"Basically you should just get on with life, and make the most of the time you have," Mrs Fisher said.
She was so impressed that she organised to bring him to Napier, where he'll speak at Ormlie Lodge on August 11.
All proceeds from the event will go to the Cystic Fibrosis Association and Pakowhai School, where 5-year-old Amber Fisher has just started.
Mr Barrell was injured when he broke his neck in a scrum, instantly ending his professional career.
Extensive rehabilitation had him recover well enough to join the police force, only to have those dreams dashed when he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.
The resulting surgery left him with brain damage and forced him to relearn basic functions like speaking, walking and dressing himself.
After overcoming countless setbacks, a psychologist convinced him to share his story with others.
"She realised the potential that this guy had to inspire people and it was her that got him into public speaking when he really had no desire whatsoever to do it," Mrs Fisher said.
Now she hopes his courage will show everyone in the Hawke's Bay that no challenge is too big.
"For me it's about appreciating all the good in your life and trying to focus on that," she said. "Obviously Amber needs a bit of extra care ... and sometimes it's easy to focus on the fact that life can be tough. But in the scheme of things my life is bloody good, and I want to appreciate that for all it's worth."
Jason Barrell speaks at the Ormlie Lodge at 7pm on August 11. Tickets available at the door from 6.30pm for $10, or can be booked by emailing clair@taylorcorp.co.nz.