Jeff Fabry tells tale of relentless determination

The opening week of the spring semester began with a break in weekly chapel tradition. Upon leaving their morning classes, students were lead into the FC gym and filled the bleachers, awaiting their guest speaker. The tired eyes in the room widened as they caught glimpse of some unusual props: a massive black bow, equipped with arrows, lying across from a red bullseye target.

The Thursday chapel commenced with a preface from Deby Hergenrader, founder of local non-profit corporation, Break the Barriers (BTB). Hergenrader explained the mission of BTB, which specializes in ministering to those with disabilities through their programs (which include training in sports, performing arts, fitness, etc.)

After presenting a video with footage of BTB’s outreach programs, Hergenrader introduced main speaker, Jeff Fabry. Fabry utilized his time to tell the story of how he became involved with archery and went on to win a gold medal in the 2012 Summer Paralympics.

Fabry suffered a motorcycle crash at the age of 15, losing both his right arm and leg. However, he quickly rekindled his passion for hunting through archery. Over time, he began competing at the national level. Fabry told the tale of how he snatched bronze medals in the 2004 and 2008 Paralympics, but continued striving towards the gold.

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In the years since his victory, Fabry transitioned to coaching at Break the Barriers. Fabry shares that if there is anything he wants the younger crowd to take away from his story, it is that an optimistic perspective can change ones quality of life.

“No matter how bad you think your life is there is no reason to think that way,” Fabry said. “Always have a positive outlook, you can do anything you set your mind to.”

The session concluded with a live demonstration from Fabry himself. Using his mouth to pull back the arrow, Fabry launched several arrows into the heart of the target. A thick silence preceded each fire, and boisterous cheering erupted after every shot proved nearly perfect.

This writer can be reached via Twitter: @_chloemueller and via email: Chloe Mueller.

For more about Break the Barriers, visit their website.

For more features, read Prison guard shares story of career, values.