The Hit That Saved Me: A Rugby Player's Collision with Grace

When a split-second rugby tackle left Mark Tonga with a devastating spinal injury, it looked like the end—but it was only the beginning. In this raw and inspiring conversation, disability rights advocate Mark Tonga shares how a near-fatal accident shattered his body but awakened his soul. Once a self-proclaimed “10-feet tall and bulletproof” young man, Mark’s teen years were marked by rebellion. And although he found discipline in the army, and accomplishment through academic achievement, the pain he felt beneath the surface never left. It wasn’t until that fateful moment on the Rugby field that everything changed. Mark realized he didn't want to die, that he had faith and a purpose bigger than himself. Now, he shares the hope of Christ and fights for the dignity and rights of people with disabilities. His body may be broken, but his spirit is unshakable—and his story just might change how you see your own.