When life deals us a devastating blow, it’s tempting to throw in the towel.
Barry Darcy probably considered doing just that when one cruel twist of fate seemingly squashed all his dreams. The 38-year-old from Cork, Ireland, was told he may never walk again when a sudden spinal injury left him paralyzed from the waist down in 2013. But he refused to give in to despair and, incredibly, walked onto the stage of “Ireland’s Got Talent” years later.
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The self-proclaimed massive Elvis Presley fan has been singing ever since he was a kid. He’s also spent the past 10 years working as an Elvis tribute act. But after his injury, he could no longer physically do it. That’s what makes his comeback so amazing.
Barry didn’t just recently appear on the reality talent competition. He walked out onto the stage. Understandably, he got choked up when he told the judges he previously thought he may never sing again.
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“I had a herniated disc in my back and it crushed the nerves into my legs. I just went to get out of bed one day and fell out on to the floor,” Barry said. “They gave me a fifty-fifty chance of ever walking again, and I took it.”
He explained that he chose to sing Presley’s hit, “The Wonder of You,” as a tribute to his wife and two sons, who were there every step of the way throughout his recovery… and to support him during his audition.
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It’s funny how easily the man who thought he’d never walk again could bring an entire audience to their feet.
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Barry had the judges and audience alike waving and singing along as he perfectly emulated the King of Rock and Roll with his stunning vocals.
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There’s no question that like Presley did during his performances, Barry felt the song with his whole heart, belting out the emotional lyrics for the people he loved most: his family.
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“Barry, Barry, where have you been?” judge Louis Walsh asked as Barry finished the song. Then, before any of the other judges could say anything, Walsh got out of his seat and promptly slammed his hand down onto the Golden Buzzer!
Barry’s family rushed out to share an emotional hug, celebrating the victory as they do with everything else — together.
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Congratulations, Barry! You’re a beacon of hope in the dark for everyone who feels like giving up. You’ve come such a long way and definitely deserve to win! With a family as loving and supportive as his, there’s nothing stopping him from reaching his dreams.
Watch Barry’s touching performance of the Presley hit below, and share to show your support.
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