Hello everyone, I’m GK Cemsoylu Nyland, but you can just call me GK. A few years back, my life changed dramatically: I transitioned from being an MMA fighter to living with a disability. Now, as a young father in Norway, I navigate through both the literal and metaphorical landscapes of this new life. I’d like to share my journey with you—not just the struggles but the everyday realities and unexpected moments of joy. 

Can you tell us a bit about your background and the life-changing incident you experienced?

GK: Certainly. I’ve always been passionate about martial arts and fitness. I was actually on the brink of turning professional as an MMA fighter when my life took an unexpected turn. Just before a major expansion of my gym, modeling contract and a series of professional fights, I suffered a severe injury from a simple jump into the water, resulting in a spinal injury that paralyzed me. This accident confronted me with my greatest fear—being immobilized.

How did you cope mentally and emotionally after the accident?

GK: It was my biggest nightmare come true. I’ve always identified myself through movement and physical ability. Facing a life of immobility was something I had never imagined. Initially, it was a mental battle as much as a physical one. Despite the grim prognosis, my fighter’s spirit was undeterred. I immersed myself in recovery, reaching out to leading doctors and even undergoing experimental treatments like stem cell therapy, though the results were not as I had hoped.