Shinnie reflects on his remarkable career milestone and the challenges of Crohn's disease.
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Graeme Shinnie, the captain of Aberdeen FC, is set to achieve a remarkable milestone this Saturday as he prepares to make his 600th club appearance in the Scottish Cup quarter-final against Queen’s Park at Pittodrie. This achievement is not just a testament to his skill on the pitch, but also a powerful message of resilience for those battling chronic illnesses, particularly Crohn’s disease.
Overcoming adversity: Shinnie’s battle with Crohn’s disease
At just 18 years old, Shinnie faced a life-altering challenge when he underwent an 11-hour surgery for Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the digestive system. The young footballer found himself in a hospital bed, grappling with the fear that he might never play again.
“Having this career is my biggest win in football,” Shinnie reflected, emphasizing how far he has come since those dark days.
His journey to recovery was fraught with difficulties. After the surgery, he was bedridden for a week, and the simple act of getting out of bed felt monumental. “I was thinking: ‘I can’t get out of my bed, let alone play football’,” he recalled. However, with determination and a focus on health, Shinnie gradually regained his strength, eventually returning to the pitch and embarking on a successful 15-year career.
A career filled with achievements
Throughout his career, Shinnie has not only captained Aberdeen but has also led Inverness Caley Thistle to Scottish Cup glory in 2015. His journey has taken him through various clubs, including stints in England with Derby County and Wigan Athletic, and he has proudly represented Scotland six times. Shinnie’s dedication to the sport and his ability to overcome personal challenges serve as an inspiration to many, particularly those facing similar health issues.
“To have come through that and be 600 games on is motivation for a lot of people that are struggling with Crohn’s,” he stated. His story resonates beyond football, offering hope to individuals dealing with chronic illnesses that they, too, can achieve their dreams.
Looking ahead: The quest for silverware
As Shinnie approaches this significant milestone, his focus remains on achieving success with Aberdeen. He expressed a strong desire to lift a trophy at Hampden, something he has yet to accomplish. “I know how tough it is to do it. I’ve given myself enough opportunities,” he said, highlighting the importance of the upcoming match against Queen’s Park.
Queen’s Park has proven to be a formidable opponent, having recently eliminated Rangers from the Scottish Cup. Shinnie acknowledges the challenge ahead, stating, “We know how good Queen’s Park are and the troubles they could cause us.” With a solid game plan in place, Shinnie and his teammates are determined to control the match and secure their place in the next round.
As he prepares for this pivotal moment in his career, Graeme Shinnie stands as a beacon of hope and perseverance, not only for aspiring athletes but for anyone facing adversity. His journey illustrates that with determination and resilience, anything is possible.
