A bus crash left her bedridden at 30. Three years later, she’s deadlifting 110kg and getting seniors into the gym

A bus crash left Siti Maryam Abdul Rahman bedridden at 30. Three years later, she is deadlifting 110 kilograms and helping seniors stay active at the gym. The incident occurred in 2023 when a double-decker bus collided with her motorcycle during her commute to a second job. The force of the impact threw her onto the windshield of the bus, where she was dragged several meters before her motorcycle became lodged beneath the vehicle. This likely spared her from more severe injury. After four days in a coma, she underwent ten surgeries and spent months confined to a wheelchair. Despite the severity of her condition, doctors noted that her substantial muscle mass helped her survive the accident with less damage than anticipated. The crash marked a turning point in her life, though not necessarily the lowest point. At the time, Maryam was a single mother of four children, navigating both a divorce and the challenges of being the sole provider for her family. Her ex-husband had recently cheated on her, prompting a solo trip to Japan five days prior to the accident. The emotional toll of that relationship, combined with the physical trauma of the crash, created a complex backdrop to her recovery. While hospitalized, she relied heavily on her mother for basic care, including help with toileting and bathing. During her initial recovery period, she communicated with loved ones using a whiteboard, expressing her love for them despite her inability to speak. Maryam began her rehabilitation almost immediately, starting with simple exercises using small weights while still in the hospital. Doctors initially estimated it would take six to nine months for her to regain the ability to walk, but she exceeded expectations by walking unaided within three months. Her determination and consistency in following her rehabilitation plan played a crucial role in her progress. As she regained mobility, she focused on rebuilding her strength and fitness, eventually transitioning to weight training. Today, she can deadlift 110 kg, a personal best achieved after her recovery. Her journey has not only transformed her own life but also inspired others. Maryam now works at a gym, where she helps senior citizens maintain their fitness levels. Her story resonates with those facing similar challenges, demonstrating resilience and the power of perseverance. She recalls the moment of realization after learning she had survived the accident, stating, “I was, like, 'You mean I'm supposed to be dead now?'" That moment ignited a passion for fitness that continues to drive her today. The accident left lasting physical marks on Maryam, including a scar along her torso from surgery. Despite these reminders of her ordeal, she approaches each workout with enthusiasm and purpose. Her experience underscores the importance of mental and physical resilience in overcoming adversity. As she continues to train and assist others, her focus remains on pushing boundaries and encouraging those around her to embrace strength and health. Maryam’s current routine includes regular sessions at the gym, where she trains alongside seniors and shares her experiences. Her ability to perform feats once thought impossible highlights the potential for recovery and growth after traumatic events. She emphasizes the value of staying active and maintaining a positive outlook, lessons she learned during her darkest moments. Her story serves as a powerful example of how setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities for transformation and contribution.