Ryan Shazier on Struggling in Public and Overcoming Obstacles

Dec 4, 2021

Ryan Shazier, former NFL linebacker and author of "Walking Miracle," shares his inspiring journey from paralysis to purpose. He discusses overcoming alopecia and a career-ending spinal cord injury, emphasizing resilience and personal growth. Ryan reflects on the support he received and the importance of mental health resources. He highlights the role of positivity in recovery and how sharing his story motivates others facing adversity. With a strong commitment to helping spinal cord injury patients, Ryan turns his challenges into opportunities for hope and healing.

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ANECDOTE

Early Adversity: Alopecia

At five years old, Ryan Shazier was diagnosed with alopecia, an autoimmune disease causing hair loss.
His parents gave him the choice to wear a hat always or never, pushing him to accept his condition.

ADVICE

Finding Strength in Shared Struggle

Shazier's parents instilled in him the understanding that everyone faces hidden struggles.
He learned to deflect negativity by acknowledging others might be going through worse.

ANECDOTE

Career-Altering Injury

Shazier was a standout player, making it to the Pro Bowl in his third NFL season.
His promising career took a turn when he suffered a severe spinal cord injury during a game.

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On today’s episode of the podcast, Ryan talks to former NFL linebacker Ryan Shazier about his new book Walking Miracle, his journey after being diagnosed with Alopecia as a child, how he managed to overcome incredible adversity after a career ending spinal cord injury, and more.

Ryan Dean Shazier is a former American football linebacker. He played college football at Ohio State and was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Shazier had a successful first few seasons in the league, including a Pro Bowl appearance in 2016. During the 2017 season against the Cinncinati Bengals, Shazier attempted to make a head first tackle that left him unable to move his legs, and he had to have spinal stabilization surgery and learn to walk again. After spending two seasons on the Steelers' physically unable to perform list, Shazier announced his retirement from football in 2020. He started a foundation called The Ryan Shazier Fund to ensure all spinal cord injury patients have the same support and fighting chance as Ryan to live independent and meaningful lives, no matter their socioeconomic status.

His new book Walking Miracle: How Faith, Positive Thinking, and Passion for Football Brought Me Back from Paralysis...and Helped Me Find Purpose is out everywhere now.

Read Paul Kix’s article on sports and Stoicism: The ancient credo that fueled the Patriot Way, inspired Nick Saban and helped Ryan Shazier heal

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