When Aisling Byrne travelled to Portugal in 2018 for an international showjumping competition, she expected a routine event. Instead, a tragic accident left her with devastating injuries and a grim prognosis—she would never walk again. Seven years later, she has defied all odds, not only regaining her mobility but returning to competitive showjumping.
Byrne, a finance firm director and seasoned equestrian, had been riding a horse she had cared for over several months. However, as a tractor sped past, the animal reared in panic, lost its balance, and fell backwards onto her. The impact crushed her midsection, leaving her with extensive spinal injuries, shattered hips, a broken pelvis, and internal bleeding.
Speaking about the accident, Byrne recalled: “The horse landed square on top of me. I was rushed to hospital, where doctors told me I’d never walk again. I had to be revived several times during surgery because I had stopped breathing.”
She awoke from a coma to the devastating news that she would be wheelchair-bound for life. But rather than accept her fate, she chose to fight.
“Even in hospital, I was determined to keep smiling,” Byrne said. “You can only control your attitude, and I truly believe positivity played a huge role in my recovery.”
Following multiple surgeries and three months of being completely bedbound, Byrne began intensive physiotherapy. For over two years, she relied on crutches as she worked towards regaining her mobility. Despite warnings from doctors that she would never ride again, she remained determined.
With the support of her family, she eventually took her first steps back onto a horse. What started as a simple walk around her home evolved into full rehabilitation. Today, she competes once more on the international showjumping circuit, travelling between Europe and the United States.
Byrne’s journey of resilience extends beyond the equestrian world. Throughout her recovery, she continued working at Nera Capital, the litigation funding firm where she is a director. Established in 2011, the company manages over £500 million in assets, providing funding solutions to law firms worldwide. She also maintained her role at Journey Through Ireland, a luxury travel business she founded.
Her personal struggles have shaped her professional mindset. “You only have yourself and your resilience to rely on,” she said. “Everything else can change in an instant.”
Reflecting on her experience, Byrne emphasised the importance of perseverance.
“I know how hard it can be when everything feels impossible. But a single thread of hope can make all the difference. Hold onto it, keep taking one step at a time, and most importantly—enjoy life. Time is precious.”
Now, with her accident firmly behind her, Byrne is focused on both her businesses and her sport. What seemed an insurmountable challenge in 2018 has become the foundation of her success.
