Paralympic Silver! After the heartbreak in London 2012, I contemplated retiring and never lifting a weight again. But I couldn't retire with my last memory being of 2012. Deep down I knew that if I controlled my Crohn's Disease and changed my lifestyle, then I could at least challenge for a medal. Since London 2012 I've managed to complete the set of major medals. I'm full of emotions right now and it's not really sunk in, but just a massive thank you to everyone that supported me on this journey, all the messages, and everyone who watched me last night.
A big thank you has to go out to British Weight Lifting, Paralympics GB and UK Sport for having the faith in me after 2012. A special mention to Tom Whittaker and Rana Singh. They both had to experience the disappointment of 2012 with me, but they got me back up and gave me four more hard years. There are so many people to thank, but I'll do it individually.
Finally, my medal is dedicated to every Crohn's and Colitis sufferer that has a dream. Don't let the diseases define you, let it make you want to reach your potential even more!
Ali
27, Diagnosed with Crohn's Disease in 2008
Ali is a true inspiration for everyone affected by Crohn's or Colitis - he has overcome great adversities to reach Rio 2016 and is strong in every sense of the word. Congratulations Ali, we're so proud to have you on our team.
Crohn's Disease is one of the two main forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. The other is Ulcerative Colitis.
Crohn's is a chronic condition that causes parts of the digestive system to become swollen, inflamed and ulcerated.
Symptoms can include diarrhoea, weight loss, severe pain and extreme fatigue making it difficult for many of those diagnosed to practice sport.
