|
|
About Vitalis |
|
Lightning like explosions of energy that combust before your eyes pulling you in by the negative pressure of force which was generated only by the excellent spirit and personality of one man; a man of GOD, a family man, a friendly man, and a man for the community. Vitalis Lanshima, the man with childlike faith that teaches the lesson of true endurance, perseverance, and hope. Vitalis, now twenty-seven was twelve years of age when surprised by God's plan to interrupt his life for His Own Glory. |
As young Vitalis carried a high jump bar, it touched the high voltage wire that hung very low, as was common in Nigeria, which in turn, melted his lower extremities together, rendering them useless. In unspeakable anguish the twelve year old exclaimed, " Help me JESUS!" Well, over the years Christ has helped. In 1994 Vitalis made a comeback into the academic and sporting scene, breaking every barrier of stereotype and prejudice that is labeled on the handicap in Africa. In a continent where individuals who are handicapped are relegated to the background, not cared for, provided for and needless to mention deprived of education and life essentials. Life was tough for Vitalis. Despite his disability, he had to provide for his needs and that of his family. |
Through thick and thin, Vitalis Lanshima rehabilitated himself, learning how to feed, dress, wear shoes and socks, brush, etc., all by himself without help from anyone. He learned how to finally write holding the pen with his stumps. During his first three years in high school, Vitalis vowed not to place second to anyone. His determination made sure he passed all his class exams in first place ahead of everyone else, finishing every test and exams ahead of most his classmates. His performance and zeal earned him accolades and admiration of his mates along with a position most of his mates only dreamt of, a student tutor. |
 |
 |
Education is not the only field Vitalis excelled in. In 1996, he won his first Gold medal in 800 meters at the National Sports Festival in Makurdi, Nigeria. Although Vitalis missed out of the Paralympic Games in Atlanta, he kept his head up, training harder than ever before. The next four years, although challenging, brought out the best in Vitalis. He made various changes and moves in his life. He changed coaches and events, shifting from 1500 meters to 100 meters. By 1998, Vitalis became the national champion in 400, 800, and 1500 meters. |
Vitalis Lanshima's athletic career blossomed; his move from middle distance to sprints, gave him the opportunity to represent Nigeria at international competitions because Nigeria does not encourage middle and long distances. By 1999, he became the best 200 meters amputee athlete in Nigeria and won his first international medal at the All African Games in Johannesburg, South Africa. In 2000, Vitalis won three Gold medals at the Afro-Asian Games in Tunis, Tunisia where he also qualified for the Paralympic Games in Sydney, Australia. At the Sydney games, Vitalis set two World Records in the 200 and 400 meters when he braced the tape in 22.82 seconds and 52.78 seconds in 200 and 400 meters respectively, becoming the first Double Amputee athlete to break the 24 seconds and 54 seconds marks.
Ever since Sydney, Vitalis remained unstoppable. He moved to England to begin his life long dream. An individual who could not afford a bicycle, afforded a airplane ticket to England where he created a new perspective towards disability, he won virtually every event he entered. In 2002, Vitalis was recruited by Bellarmine University in Louisville, Kentucky to become the first disabled athlete to be recruited by an NCAA accredited institution to represent them in sporting events. In 2006, he shattered the 100 meters World Record, upgrading it to 11:05 seconds. He also lowered his 200 meters record to 22:52 seconds in 2005.
The greatest moment in Vitalis Lanshima's life came in 2004 when he was nominated for the 2004 Laureus World Sports Award's Sports Person with a Disability category. That made him one of the few elite African athletes and the only Nigerian to ever be norminated for this Oscar-like award which brings together the best athletes, actors, artists, singers, songwriters and celebrities. Vitalis said, "I can't believe it happened to me, not everyday does a young man from Africa, who amounts to nothing is given the opportunity to rub shoulders with the best in the world."
Vitalis Lanshima's love for God and humanity has inspired him to start Lanshima Sports Foundation and Lanshima Inspirations. Lanshima Sports Foundation is a charity organization aimed at providing opportunities for the less privileged and disabled individuals in Africa, while Lanshima Inspirations is geared towards providing godly inspiration to all, because we all need inspiration. Vitalis, who is able to do anything proves God is not blind but truly concerned and apart of our quickly vanishing lives. Vitalis Lanshima, my friend, my brother, and my inspiration. - Michael .A. Hayes Sr. |
|
