Brad Hurtig watched in amusement as students at Woodbridge High School attempted to pick up a water bottle without using their hands. One by one, students used their feet, elbows, and even their mouths to do the simple task. Without hearing Hurtig’s story, picking up the water bottle might seem silly, but those in attendance knew exactly why this was more than meets the eye.
Hurtig, who lost both of his hands in a work-related accident, was giving students a glimpse as to what life was like for him shortly after his accident. Simple tasks that we take for granted were more difficult, and Hurtig was there to share his story of adversity with the Barron community.
“I use water bottles because that’s what my coach used as an illustration for me,” said Hurtig. “He challenged me to find a way and I like to do the same with other students to challenge them to find a way.”
“Find A Way”
A superior athlete at his Northwest Ohio high school, Hurtig went to work after his sophomore year. Days into his work, a faulty sensor in a heavy-duty press caught his hands, which were almost instantly amputated. Hurtig’s life was changed in an instant, and he wondered if he would ever be able to play sports again.
Through hard work and determination, Hurtig was able to return to the football field not long after his accident occurred. Although he required help, Hurtig was happy to simply be back on the field. This motivation changed on a hot summer day, with Hurtig getting a message that would change his outlook forever.
Needing a drink in the summer sun, Hurtig asked his coach to help him. His coach, instead of place the bottle to his mouth, threw the bottle on the ground. When Hurtig looked at him, his coach said “if you’re thirsty enough, you’ll find a way.” Hurtig did find a way, and those three words ended up being the mantra that would guide him.
Back on the field, Hurtig continued his football career, where he shined. His senior year where he led his team in tackles, and was named to the All-Ohio First Team.
“I know that we all have different struggles and adversities that we face in life,” said Hurtig. “Sometimes they are visual, like mine, and other times it is internal…I felt like this was an opportunity to encourage people right where they are to press forward and find a way.”
Motivated Together
Hurtig’s story is an amazing example of what humans can do through extreme adversity. Sometimes, we take for granted the things that normally come easy to us. Hurtig’s message to students was that no matter the circumstances, you can continue to accomplish amazing things.
“There’s a range of emotions that students have,” said Hurtig. “They go from happy to sad and empathy, then the feeling of ‘I can do this too.’ If he found a way, I can find a way.”
The Barron community thanks Mr. Hurtig for his amazing message, and The Barron Perspective wishes him well in the future!
