‘Samson Rising’ : Rugby Sportsman’s Memoir Fizzes with Inspiring Tale of Making a Difference

Whilst written by a sportsman, Samson Rising is definitely not yet another sports memoir. One of the most uplifting biographies published for quite some time, the efforts of this most modest of authors has literally transformed the lives of thousands of fellow MS sufferers.

Telling his life story with wit and integrity, the author details how following the shattering diagnosis of MS, he embraced the ‘cards’ life had dealt him, and set about making change for the good.

Awarded an OBE for his endeavours in 2021, this biography is one that inspires, makes you marvel at the author’s tenacity and brings you close to tears on several occasions. It is also a lesson to us all on how to embrace those curveballs that can knock us off our planned trajectory, and how with teamwork and self-belief we can bounce back potentially stronger than ever.

With a foreword from ex-England rugby captain, Dylan Hartley, Samson Rising isa must-read that is guaranteed to lift the spirits and motivate all that pick up a copy.

Synopsis:

From childhood days growing up on a tough Cornish council estate during the 1960s and ’70s, through to establishing a bespoke Multiple Sclerosis therapy centre in Surrey, John Hambly’s life has been quite a roller-coaster.

He discovered the strength of teamwork early on by becoming mentally and physically fit playing rugby at senior school, whilst also realising that this was a good way to dispel bullies.

A career in surveying led him to London; quite a change for a boy from the west country. There were some hilarious and mad escapades as he learnt ‘on the job’, but he was successful in his chosen profession and also in sport, becoming Captain of an aspiring junior London rugby club. Marriage and four daughters also followed along the way.

It is when participating in the London Marathon that the first alarming signs of his physical problems appeared, but only later that Multiple Sclerosis was diagnosed.

Following two years where his condition seemed to be in free-fall, and realising the great lack of specialist resources in the NHS, John became determined to improve the situation. Over the next 17 years, with help from his ex-teammates, charity trustees, family and friends, millions of pounds were raised to enable the construction and development of the Samson Centre in Guildford; eventually treating up to 200 people a week and offering 10,000 therapy sessions each year.

It is John Hambly’s indomitable spirit and great belief in teamwork that built this charitable foundation – and this is his story.

Consistently receiving five-star reviews, Amazon readers say:

“Hats off to John Hambly who has written this inspiring & humorous tale of how he coped with an early diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis and went on to raise thousands of pounds for fellow suffers. Well worth looking at if you’re a Rugby fan or just a fan of the human spirit triumphing over adversity.” – wicko1

“This was a fabulous read. Uplifting and at the same time tearful. John’s journey through life has been a rollercoaster and despite the obvious kick in the teeth 20 odd years ago, the way he has brought so much hope and help into the lives of others is inspirational. I don’t think he realises what he has achieved. We do.” – Andrew Stacey

“Absolutely loved this book. It’s kept me company whilst rocking my son to sleep and I couldn’t put it down (even after the kids were down!). Honest and compelling – a true story of resilience and how to dig deep for strength you never knew existed.” – Beth

“I bought this book because I know John. John is not famous or a household name so why should you buy it? Well, you will find an amusing, inspirational, emotional rollercoaster story about an extraordinary ‘ordinary’ guy who hasn’t let the road bumps/blocks in his life stop him achieving so much when it would have been easier to have taken the soft option. A guy who always gives his best, seeks to help others and takes the lead, not for the plaudits but to ensure it is done properly. And always with a smile and a laugh. John is one of life’s ‘good guys’. Which is why he has received so much support from his friends and family to enable him to set and achieve some ambitious targets. The book is a good reminder about how to deal with life’s ups and down, the importance family and friends, setting goals and how to achieve them and the value in helping others. I thought I knew John before reading this book. I now know so much more. Now buy the book. You will not regret it.” – Mr D Wade

Published by United Writers Publications, Samson Rising is available in hardback (£18.95) and Kindle format (£9.99) on Amazon