Half an hour’s inspiration from cancer surviving, crippled athlete from Singapore

A series of fortunate co-incidences yesterday delivered half an hour with one of the most inspirational people it's been my privilege to meet. Dr William Tan was born 58 years ago in Singapore, a country then so backward that his parents were unaware their baby needed vaccinations. As a two year old, Tan contracted polio and the resulting paralysis kept him in a wheelchair ever since.

At 18, William found his life's anchor (christianity) and slowly, deep resentments about his preventable disability fell away. That change in his outlook opened the way to an incredibly rich life as a neuroscientist (his PhD thesis was on the brain) and medical doctor who earned scholarships to Harvard and Oxford universities.

As a wheelchair athlete he has represented his country in the Paralympics – and participated in dozens of the most famous marathons around the world. Six years ago he was diagnosed with Stage 4 leukaemia and given a year to live. But kept training while on chemotherapy and used the experience to inspire his patients at the cancer hospital where he works.

His secret? Dr Tan told me it's all about attitude. He's always been a fighter and says he simply applies the resolve and "indomitable spirit" all of us are born with. When you need a lift, google him. William Tan, who was brought to SA by Novartis, is an incredible example of the odds we humans are capable of overcoming.