Defying the Odds: Tunisian triathlete Mohamed Islem overcomes amputation

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Europe

02:36

In Tunisia, an amputee has become a well-known inspiration. He's an honored triathlete who has defied hardship after an accident and months in the hospital. CGTN's Adnen Chaouachi has more from Tunis.

2 years ago, this African champion woke up at hospital after a serious accident in Tunis. The athlete's leg was amputated and his career seemed over. Now lifting heavy weights and training for 2 hours at the Gym has become a daily routine.

MOHAMED ISLEM BOUGLIA TUNISIAN TRIATHLON CHAMPION "I was hit by a car. I just remember the moment I realized that my leg was gone. I was only 19. It was difficult to accept the new situation. I had become handicapped while I had always been independent and very active."

Mohamed Islem says overcoming the handicap was a physical and mental challenge. The athlete was forced to learn walking and practicing sport again after amputation.

MOHAMED ISLEM BOUGLIA TUNISIAN TRIATHLON CHAMPION "At the beginning, I did not accept the artificial leg. It looked like a foreign entity. Now this object is my new leg. I depend on it for walking, training, swimming, and cycling."

ADNEN CHAOUACHI TUNIS, TUNISIA "Cycling here at the Olympic compound in Tunis every day, is Mohamed Islem's main activity to prepare for future African, Arab and international tournaments. The athlete wants to turn the page on several months of physical suffering."

The champion cycles at least 20 miles a day to beat his own record. His dream is to travel around the world and tell his story to tens of thousands of people who feel incapable and isolated after amputation.

MOHAMED ISLEM BOUGLIA TUNISIAN TRIATHLON CHAMPION "I know that people suffer too much after amputation. One does not realize that life can go on. We just need hope and more goals. Winning more triathlon titles here in Africa and in the world is my objective. Everything is possible even after amputation."

Mohamed Islem has become a symbol of courage and determination in Tunisia. In the next few weeks, the 21-year-old athlete will visit several universities in many regions across the North African state to tell his story to Tunisian youths. Adnen Chaouachi, CGTN, Tunis, Tunisia.