Martine Wright's story is a testament to hard work, courage and determination.
She lost both her legs and 80 per cent of the blood in her body in the terrorist explosion on the London underground on 7th July 2005. One of the last people to be pulled out of the wreckage, she spent ten days in a coma and was subjected to many painful operations over a ten month period as she slowly made her recovery, yet she now considers herself to be a lucky woman.
In 2009, Martine tried out Sitting Volleyball at a 'have a go' session. She enjoys the sport for its inclusive nature and focus on the team element of the game. She made her sitting volleyball debut at the 2010 Kent International against the Paralympic Champions, China, and she went on to gain over 40 GB caps. On the court, Martine can occupy any position, including Server, Hitter, Blocker and Libero. Prior to taking part in the London 2012 Paralympics her most memorable achievement was beating Canada at the 2010 World Championships.
Seven years after the terrifying events of 7/7 2005, she was an elite athlete at the London 2012 Paralympics, competing in the Sitting Volleyball.
Outside of the sporting arena Martine graduated in 1996 with a degree in Psychology and Communication Studies from the University of East London and she is a property manager.
During her rehabilitation she got married, gave birth to a little boy, learned to ski and has undertaken a parachute jump. However she describes her greatest achievement as leaning to fly solo following completion of a Douglas Bader Flying Scholarship for the Disabled in South Africa
Since 2006, she has also been a public campaigner for the families of the victims of the 7/7 bombings.
In 2010, she was awarded the title of Hertfordshire Sportswoman of the Year. In 2012 she was named Inspirational Woman of the Year in Zest magazine and was presented with the Helen Rollason Award at the BBC's Sports Personality of the Year.
Martine is a truly inspirational speaker, with her own story of courage and determination.