Highly-acclaimed Welsh athlete Non Evans has shared her heartbreaking journey following a hit-and-run incident that left her with life-altering injuries. The traumatic event occurred in September 2023 when Non was struck by a car while cycling near her residence in Mumbles, Swansea. The impact resulted in severe injuries, including a complex fracture in her right wrist and a shin injury. The driver, identified as an 87-year-old woman, fled the scene and was later convicted in magistrates’ court for failing to stop after an accident and driving without due care and attention.
Non, who boasts an impressive sports career with 87 international rugby caps for Wales and multiple medals in judo, weightlifting, and freestyle wrestling, detailed the profound impact of the incident on her physical and mental well-being. Despite undergoing surgery to address her injuries, complications arose, including infections that required further medical intervention. Non expressed her struggles in coping with the loss of independence and identity, emphasising how the incident has left her unable to perform even basic tasks like opening a tin or cutting food.
The 50-year-old sports star lamented the significant changes in her life post-accident, highlighting the challenges she faces in adapting to a new reality where her athletic abilities have been greatly compromised. Non revealed the emotional toll of no longer being able to engage in the rigorous training routines that defined her identity as an elite athlete. The limitations imposed by her injuries have not only affected her physical capabilities but have also led to a loss of confidence and self-esteem.
Reflecting on the financial repercussions of her injuries, which forced her to step back from her career as a personal trainer, Non disclosed the financial strain she experienced and the need to seek financial assistance. She recounted the difficulties in accepting fewer clients due to her physical limitations, underscoring the impact on her professional reputation and sense of fulfilment in her work. Non’s journey serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of hit-and-run accidents and the long-lasting effects on individuals’ lives.
As Non navigates the ongoing legal processes related to the incident, including discussions with solicitors and medical assessments to determine the extent of the damage caused, she continues to grapple with the emotional aftermath of the traumatic event. The lack of closure and the lingering physical impairments serve as constant reminders of the life-altering experience she endured. Through her candid recounting of the challenges she faces, Non sheds light on the resilience and courage required to navigate the complexities of recovery and adaptation following a life-changing event.