Expanding the 'boundaries of what's possible'

Shule member’s ‘awe-inspiring’ journey

"From a dire prognosis to almost touching the sky atop the world, he demonstrated that one should never give up or accept limitations in life,"

Rabbi Yaakov Glasman (left) and Salomon Sacal. Photo: Paul Topol
Rabbi Yaakov Glasman (left) and Salomon Sacal. Photo: Paul Topol

The St Kilda Shule community was deeply moved by a captivating talk delivered by shule member Salomon Sacal. Sharing his journey, Sacal recounted a remarkable tale of resilience and determination that carried him from the depths of despair to the heights of Mount Everest Base Camp.

Titled “Unstoppable: From Tragedy to Triumph at 5700 Metres”, Sacal’s presentation painted a picture of his personal struggle. Following a devastating bicycle accident that resulted in a severe 2cm occipital bone fracture, doctors delivered a disheartening prognosis, suggesting he might never regain his ability to walk. Undeterred, Sacal refused to succumb to limitations. He embarked on an arduous training regimen, and his unwavering determination propelled him forward, eventually leading him to conquer Mount Everest Base Camp. Despite enduring physical consequences from his injury, Sacal fulfilled a lifelong dream by reaching an astonishing height of 5700 metres at Mount Khalapathar.

“It was an honour to share my story with my shule community,” Sacal told The AJN.

“I strongly believe that when life knocks you down, we should rise stronger than ever. The power to overcome lies within you – unleash it!” he added.

Sacal decided to share his story publicly because, as he says, “Your story has the power to change lives – share it and inspire greatness.”

St Kilda Shule’s Rabbi Yaakov Glasman said, “Salomon’s journey was nothing short of awe-inspiring.

“From a dire prognosis to almost touching the sky atop the world, he demonstrated that one should never give up or accept limitations in life,” he said.

Rabbi Glasman noted that Sacal’s lived experience “is a powerful testament that even while battling persistent challenges, with enough grit and resilience, the boundaries of what’s possible can always be expanded”.

“I hope that by speaking at other venues and communities, Salomon can inspire as many people as possible, helping them realise their own potential and resilience in the face of adversity.”

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