A 54-year-old man – who was paralysed after a freak accident at the Papase’ea Sliding Rocks and was bedridden – says he has a story to tell as he has fully recovered from the mishap.

Pu’a Sagote Williams says his recovery after two years of suffering is a result of a miracle and is proof of God's unfailing love, given his devastating fall at the popular tourist attraction which led to him becoming paralysed. 

Speaking to Samoa Observer, Mr. Williams said before he slipped in 2005 at Papase'ea Sliding Rock, he was "drowning in the temptations of the worldly life of drinking alcohol, smoking weed and committing multiple sins."

Two years after the accident, he suffered a back injury with the doctors advising that his back bone was dislocated, consequently paralyzing him and leaving him bedridden. He then lost his right arm after the doctors decided to remove it due to his major injuries.  

"And that's the reason why I am single because I was one of those people who just loved to enjoy the exciting things in life and not think of doing something good,” he said.

The incident at Papaseea was a wake up call according to Mr. Williams, as from his bed he tied a rope to a pole in his house, and with one arm tried to push his body up so he can walk again as soon as possible.

After fighting his way back to full recovery, he now walks every morning from his residence at Lepea to take on bible learning sessions at the Rhema Bible Training College South Pacific at Taufusi.

While he walks in public with just one arm, Mr. Williams is hopeful that his story will inspire others who are fighting similar battles in life.

“From drinking alcohol and smoking weed and marijuana, I am now willing to serve God with my remaining years and again, I am not too late.”

His advice to whoever his message can reach: “God has a purpose for everyone and do not give up”.