From fleeing war-torn Syria after a bomb attack resulting in amputation to pursuing dreams of becoming an Athletic Paralympian - Dima epitomizes resilience, refusing to let setbacks hold her back.
Movao speaks with Dima Atkaa, whose story is a testament to pure resilience - a journey of reclaiming her life after enduring a violent bomb attack in Syria. Dima vividly recalls the traumatic incident that changed the rest of her life. At 18 years old, while watching television with her family, a bomb struck her home. In an instant, amidst chaos and engulfed in black dust, her mother rushed to her aid, only to discover that during the blast, Dima's leg had been completely severed, resulting in an above-the-knee amputation. After the traumatic accident, the family relocated to Lebanon, a comparatively safer haven than war-torn Syria. However, life was still hard, as they were now refugees in a new country and encountered barriers and societal acceptance. Furthermore, Dima faced limited opportunities as a young person with a disability.
Despite these challenges, Dima refused to give in; having loved partaking in exercise and sports, she found the courage to join a gym. Finding a new escapism and happy place, she adapted her exercise routines, becoming physically and mentally stronger. Before amputation, she had been an avid runner, and now, realizing she could still be active as an amputee, she had her sights on reclaiming that part of her identity. After eight years in Lebanon, Dima and her family relocated to Bedfordshire, UK. Here, her long-awaited dream came true as she received her first prostheses. Having relied solely on crutches, the significance of this moment was immense, with Dima cradling it as she drifted off to sleep at night.
Feeling unstoppable and fueled by a new mission to reclaim her love for running, Dima started a crowdfunding page, raising enough to purchase an Ottobock running blade. She felt profound freedom the first time she used it, a sensation she had long awaited. Wasting no time, she established a rigorous training regimen, gradually increasing her daily distances. With incredible progress and completion of a half marathon, Dima set her sights on competing in athletics at the Paralympics. However, she faced another setback when she began experiencing burning pains in her residual limb, pausing the Paralympic dream. It was a crushing blow. Despite overcoming numerous challenges, another setback temporarily halted her aspirations. Now prioritizing her health, Dima prepares for an upcoming surgery, determined to overcome this obstacle and continue her journey toward her dream. We speak with her about her remarkable strength and her plans for the future.
How did you cope with having an amputation and the challenges that followed? Everyone's journey with amputation and their ways of coping are unique, so it's crucial to discover what works best for each person and to reach out for professional support if necessary. For me, it was a tough experience because it happened suddenly. However, I focused on staying positive because my family was unharmed in the incident, and their support was invaluable to me.
How did including exercise by joining a gym help you on your journey towards recovery and empowerment? The gym played a pivotal role in my recovery journey. As someone who loves sports, I find it immensely beneficial in various ways. Firstly, it aided in my physical rehabilitation. Exercise proved crucial in maintaining and enhancing physical functions, strength, and flexibility. Engaging in exercises and fitness activities at the gym played a significant part in rebuilding my self-confidence. It empowered me to believe in myself and my physical capabilities once again. Additionally, the positive impact extended beyond the physical realm. Embracing a gym routine influenced my mindset and lifestyle positively. It contributed to my mental well-being by often alleviating stress, anxiety, and depression.
What inspired you to set the goal of running again? Did you always feel like you could? I find it hard to express my feelings about running because it's more than just a sport – it's truly unique. It's been my dream to be a runner, and even after ten years since my accident, I continue to fight to return to the track. Running holds an extraordinary place in my heart; it's where I feel alive and where I truly belong. Despite the challenges I've faced, from my accident to now undergoing stump revision surgery, I remain determined to get back on the running track and pursue my passion.
How did receiving your first prosthetic leg impact your life when you moved to the UK? Wow, I still remember that moment as if it were yesterday. The feeling of standing on two feet, taking my first steps, and walking after such a long time using crutches changed my whole life and has shaped me into the person I am today.
As an ambassador for Ottobock, how do you hope to empower other amputees and people with limb differences? I strive to inspire individuals with limb loss and limb differences by raising awareness, advocating for their needs, providing support and mentorship, and showcasing resilience and camaraderie. I am happy if I can help someone achieve their dreams. I want to empower them so that they, too, believe they can achieve their goals.
Can you share any advice for those who are struggling to overcome a traumatic event resulting in amputation? My advice is to prioritize self-care, lean on the invaluable support of loved ones and professionals, take each day as it comes, set small achievable goals, embrace and accept the new you, and always remember that healing is a journey, not a destination.
You've had to halt your Paralympic dreams due to needing stump revision. We're confident you'll bounce back stronger than ever before. How do you maintain your passion and resilience during this setback? I won't deny that it's a tough time for me mentally and physically. However, despite the setback, I persevere with my passion and remain resilient by focusing on my long-term goals, maintaining a positive attitude, reaching out for support from my team, and trusting in my ability to overcome challenges.
What are your future aspirations and goals, both personally and professionally? Can you tell us about your charity work and your visit to help children in Yemen? I still have so many ambitions. Firstly, I am working very hard to finish my degree in interior design and, currently, focusing on my inner self-healing from the impacts of recent setbacks and needing surgery. This is hard, but I will get through it. My work in Yemen is so emotionally rewarding. Knowing that so many children are affected by war and have lost their limbs, the charity I work with operates a limb center to assist these children with prosthetic care and provide support during these uncertain times. From similar experiences, I am drawn to be with them and offer my help in any way possible. These kids are truly remarkable – so strong and full of energy. Being around them brings me immense joy, and I cherish every moment I spend with them.
How do you define success and happiness in your life today? I define success by the meaningful connections I share with loved ones, the fulfillment I get from pursuing my passions, and the ability to overcome and confront challenges by bouncing back with determination, which makes us stronger.
If you would like to follow Dima's journey on Instagram, here is her profile @Dima_aktaa