Bristol student training for Paralympics graduates as doctor after breaking back

‘When I come wheeling into the room it disarms people’

2 months ago | UPDATED 2 months ago

A University of Bristol student who is currently training for the Paralympics after breaking his back has graduated as a doctor.

Dr Xander Van der Poll became paralysed due to a tragic accident in 2018. Seven years later he has graduated from his medical degree and is now training for the 2028 Paralympics along with his F1 job.

In 2018, 19-year-old Xander’s life was altered forever after he tragically fell from a tree, resulting in a broken back and punctured lung. Xander recalls this moment as the last time he felt his legs.

Xander was rushed to the operating theatre, the very same one where he had done his work experience a few years prior. Here he spent nine hours in surgery and nearly four months in the hospital recovering from surgery.

“You just don’t expect it to happen to you. I was in incredible pain for a few weeks and I was really worried about all the things I couldn’t do. I thought I wouldn’t be able to be a doctor, play rugby or just have a normal life.

“I was really lucky to have my family around me. My mum sat by my side every single day.”

Growing up near Stratford-upon-Avon, Xander faced not only physical challenges, but also skepticism from others. “People’s opinions are actually a lot more debilitating than your actual disability,” he explains. “People told me all sorts after the accident. During one medical placement, a doctor sat me down and listed all the things I couldn’t do.”

Despite the scepticism from others, Xander refused to give up: “The funny thing was, the list was all based on assumptions, and none of the assumptions were actually true.”

Testament to his determination, he took his first-year medical exams from his hospital bed a mere six weeks after the accident.

As Xander prepares to work in A&E after graduation, he also continues to inspire others online by sharing his and wife Kirsty’s life on instagram. “We often look back and see how far we’ve come,” he reflects. “I’m still figuring things out, but I can do a lot more now than I ever thought I’d be able to.”

Xander also found that his wheelchair often broke down barriers with patients, helping to humanise his role as a doctor. “Being in a wheelchair breaks down a lot of barriers between doctor and patient, it humanises me. When I come wheeling into the room it disarms people. I’ve never had anyone doubt my abilities.”

Xander’s story does not end with his graduation. Not only will he begin his medical career, but he’s also training for the Paralympics, with hopes of competing in Los Angeles in 2028.

In addition to his medical achievements, Xander has excelled in para-sports, including athletics, rowing, and basketball. He recently competed in the European Canoeing Championship and is now aiming for the 2028 Paralympics.

Xander and his wife Kirsty Van der Poll, an amputee and para surfer, run an inspiring Instagram page (@ourchaoticadventure) aimed at “destigmatising and showing the joy in disability.” Kirsty, who placed fourth at the ISA Para Surfing World Championships in California, is also studying for a Master’s in Physiotherapy.

Professor Chrissie Thirlwell, Head of Bristol Medical School, praised Xander’s journey, saying, “Xander has been a really talented medical student and he will no doubt go on to become a brilliant doctor. We can all learn from him.

“I look forward to seeing what he goes on to do next, and hopefully cheering him on at the 2028 Paralympics!”