From ICU bed to CWG podium: How Shubham Juyal built his life after amputation to win silver medal
Glasgow, Aug 2
Exactly four years ago, on August 1, 2022, Shubham Juyal was lying in an intensive care unit, grappling with the reality of an above-knee amputation. Hopeless, aimless, and watching his lifelong dream of becoming an Indian Army officer slip away just days before his interview, life seemed to have come to a devastating halt.
Fast forward four years to August 1, 2026, and Juyal is standing tall on the podium at the Commonwealth Games, holding a silver medal around his neck as he refuses to surrender his spirit.
"This is a big achievement because just four years ago, on August 1st, I was in the ICU. I had an above-knee amputation, and at that time I was completely hopeless and aimless," Juyal told IANS, reflecting on his incredible journey. "I never thought that after four years I would compete in the Commonwealth Games, let alone win a silver medal."
Before the life-altering accident, Juyal's sole focus was serving in Indian Army. Having already cleared his written examinations, he was merely a week away from his interview when tragedy struck.
Juyal was 26 when he cleared the written exam for the Army Cadet College entry scheme and was on his way to his SSB interview when a serious motorcycle accident changed the course of his life.
"Four years ago, my aim was to become an Army officer," he recalled. "I didn't know what I would do in life after the accident."
The turning point came in 2023 when Juyal entered the Army Paralympic Node. It was there that he met with Subedar Major RK Singh Rawat, the man who would help rewrite his destiny. At the time, Juyal had no background in para-athletics.
"I didn't even know the zero of shot put," Juyal admitted. "But my coach motivated me and taught me everything. The Indian Army, my family, and my friends supported me immensely through it all."
For the newly crowned CWG silver medallist, Glasgow silver is the launchpad for greater glories ahead as he is eyeing clinching a gold at the 2028 Paralympics.
"It's a big journey, but I think it has just started," Juyal added. "There are many more medals to come. And my aim is to win the 2028 LA Paralympics gold medal," he said.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This gave me goosebumps. He was about to become an Army officer and then life threw this challenge at him. But he didn't give up - instead he found a new way to serve the nation. Truly inspiring for all of us. His parents must be so proud!
What a phenomenal achievement! The resilience shown here is remarkable. It's also great to see the Army Paralympic Node providing proper training and mentorship. This is how we build champions - with the right support system.
Yehi toh asli deshbhakti hai! 😢 He couldn't join the Army as an officer, but he's making the entire nation proud on the international stage. Shubham, you're a real hero. Can't wait to see you win that gold in 2028 Paralympics!
What a inspiring journey! But let's also acknowledge that we need more such facilities and coaching for para-athletes across India, not just in Army. Many talented people never get this opportunity. Hope his success opens doors for others too.
Absolutely incredible! "I didn't even know the zero of shot put" - and now he's a Commonwealth Games medallist. This just shows that with determination and the right mentorship, anything is possible. Congratulations Shubham! 🎉
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