Verity Sanchez

Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 Competitor

ADF service: I enlisted in the Australian Army in 1997 and was medically discharged in 2014. I deployed on Operation Sumatra Assist to Indonesia following the 2004 Boxing Day tsunamis. I also participated in numerous international and joint exercises here in Australia and overseas

Current occupation: I am an analyst for a technology company.

Age: 45

Home town: Adelaide, South Australia

Current town: Adelaide, South Australia

Competing in: Athletics, swimming and table tennis

What is the nature of your injury or illness? As a result of my service I have cervical spondylosis, strain in my thoracic spine, bursitis in both shoulders and osteoarthritis in both knees. As a result of my service I have, prolapsed discs in my cervical spine, strain in my thoracic spine, bursitis in both shoulders and osteoarthritis in both knees.

What role has sport played in your rehabilitation? Sport has played a pivotal role in my rehabilitation. Through participating in the University of South Australia's Invictus Pathways Program, I have gained back my confidence to participate and interact with sport and exercise again. Participating in sport provides me with motivation to really work at my rehabilitation, through routine and goal setting, which has resulted in improved pain management and physical mobility. As a result, I am increasingly able to get out and about to enjoy and participate in life and achieve awesome things such as being a part of the Australian Invictus Games team.

Sport background: Swimming was my first sport. I learned to swim at the same time I learnt to walk. I loved swimming, but then one of my primary school teachers put a hockey stick in my hands and swimming took second place. I represented South Australia in U16s hockey. I was part of ADF state and national teams. My injuries mean I will never be able to play hockey again, but swimming and being in the pool is not only doable but crucial to my rehabilitation.

What is your greatest achievement to date? I love to learn. I try to learn something new every day. Through my love of learning, I have earned numerous degrees. Why I consider this part of my greatest achievement to date is because I have succeeded in earning these while working full time, dealing with my injuries, discharging from the ADF and being a mother. I feel my hard work, perseverance and open-mindedness in achieving these has set a positive example for my daughter.

Why did you apply for Invictus Games? To be a part of a great event, challenge myself both physically and mentally, and take my rehabilitation to the next level. It is truly humbling and an absolute honour to have been selected to represent Australia.

What will success look like for you at the Games? Having been selected to represent Australia already feels success to me. However, stepping up onto the blocks, lining up on the start line, and standing behind the table wearing the green and gold and then giving it my absolute all will be success.  

What does unconquered mean to you? It is eloquently stated by J.R.R Tolkien:
“It is not the strength of the body that counts, but the strength of the spirit”.