As the sun sets on another day, Major Liz Daly reflects on her journey from peacekeeper to competitor, a transformation marked by resilience, determination, and unwavering courage. Her story begins in the turbulent landscape of the Israel-Syria demilitarized zone, where she found herself trapped for 24 harrowing days, surrounded by the deafening roar of missiles and tanks rumbling in the distance. It was a test of endurance and survival that would forever shape her perspective on life and propel her towards a new chapter of triumph and empowerment.
A Trial by Fire
Late in 2023, Major Daly, a dedicated peacekeeper stationed in the Golan Heights, witnessed the escalation of tensions between Israel and Syria firsthand. As a part of the United Nations mission tasked with observing and reporting on military activities in the region, she found herself at the epicenter of a rapidly unfolding crisis. The once peaceful landscape was now marred by the ominous presence of armored vehicles and the thunderous echoes of missile strikes drawing closer with each passing day.
In the midst of chaos and uncertainty, Major Daly’s resolve was put to the ultimate test. “I thought we were going to die,” she recalled, a chilling reminder of the stark reality she faced during those long, agonizing days. Despite the overwhelming fear and uncertainty that gripped her, she remained steadfast in her commitment to duty, knowing that her actions could make a difference in the midst of turmoil.
A Journey of Healing and Redemption
Returning home in 2024, Major Daly found herself grappling with the invisible wounds left behind by her ordeal. Diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and facing the physical challenges of a re-injured ACL graft, she was confronted with a new battle—one that would test her resilience in ways she never imagined. Instead of succumbing to despair, she made a choice to rise above her circumstances and embrace a path of healing and redemption.
Fuelled by the fire of her experiences, Major Daly set her sights on a new horizon—the Invictus Games. Representing Australia on the world stage, she found solace in the camaraderie of her fellow competitors and the thrill of pushing herself beyond her limits. From swimming to wheelchair rugby, indoor rowing to skeleton, she embraced each new challenge with a spirit of determination and courage, embodying the true essence of the Invictus spirit.
Embracing Vulnerability and Resilience
For Major Daly, the road to recovery was paved with moments of vulnerability and strength, of courage and self-discovery. By sharing her story with her colleagues at the ADF’s School of Health, she hoped to inspire others to speak up and seek help in their own struggles. Breaking the silence around mental health and trauma, she emphasized the importance of acknowledging one’s humanity and embracing the journey towards healing.
As she prepares to take on the world stage at the Invictus Games, Major Daly stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, a testament to the power of determination and courage in the face of adversity. With the unwavering support of her family, friends, and medical team, she continues to navigate the challenges of recovery with grace and fortitude. Though the road ahead may be daunting, Major Daly remains steadfast in her resolve to conquer her fears and embrace the future with open arms.
In the end, Major Liz Daly’s story is not just one of triumph over adversity, but a testament to the indomitable spirit that resides within each of us. As she takes her place among the world’s finest athletes at the Invictus Games, she stands as a living reminder of the power of resilience, courage, and unwavering determination. And as the sun rises on a new day, Major Daly’s journey continues, a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.