Ria Fabian

Unfortunately my father had a near fatal car accident, when I was 16 studying exams at school. He now suffers from traumatic brain injury, still 8years on, with loss of memory and mobility. Ria was my PE teacher at the time, and sport was a huge part of my life that my father used to manage. With both parents practically living at the hospital, Ria took me under her wing like a big sister, and would go out of her way to rescue me from falling behind schoolwork, loss of performance and general loneliness. With her positive attitude and constant encouragement she maintained my motivation and focus towards a healthy and active lifestyle. Ria is a role model to students and an asset to the educating system. I even felt inspired to become a sports coach too, just so I could pass on the sporting enthusiasm Ria taught me. I have never found the right words to show how grateful I am, until may20th, having the opportunity of rewarding her with an Olympic flame, and for her to be part of one of the most celebrated sports events in the world. I may have lost my father to a head injury, but I have gained a remarkable friend. Thank you.