The Queen’s Baton has begun its homeward journey across Scotland ahead of this summer’s Commonwealth Games.
But for one batonbearer, SSE care customer manager Samantha Angus, its arrival has proved especially inspirational.
Samantha was selected from thousands of hopeful applicants to be a batonbearer for her grit and determination following a horse riding accident which left her disabled.
The 46-year-old broke her back when her horse threw her into the air. She spent five months in a back brace after undergoing surgery but fought back and returned to work just nine months later.
Samantha, who has worked for SSE for 18 years, said: “I didn’t think I was badly hurt, I just thought I was winded so I got up and walked to the edge of the paddock.
“An ambulance was sent and I was rushed to hospital where they X-rayed me. I couldn’t believe what I was being told at the hospital because I was on gas and air but I soon realised how serious it all actually was.”
While undergoing major surgery to repair the fracture in her spine, Sam missed a key family moment.
“My son, Calum, walked for the first time. I was devastated I missed such a big moment.”
Sam managed to return to work just nine months after her accident in 2005, showing spirit worthy of the Commonwealth Games.
She said; “I just can’t be somebody lying down all day. When I applied to be a baton carrier I never thought I would be chosen but I was. It just feels so special that after everything, I get to be a part of the Games. And my son will be there watching me.”
The baton is on its 190,000 km global journey before the Queen reads its inspirational message aloud at the Glasgow 2014 opening ceremony 23 July.
SSE Athlete Ambassador Eilidh Child was one of the first to carry the baton when it arrived in Scotland at the border town of Coldstream.
SSE is a proud partner of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. For behind the scenes access to Games medal hopefuls, the chance to win tickets and meet our sporting stars visit ‘More for You’.