Zachary Rayment’s 2025 began as a year of stark contrasts – a peak of exhilaration shadowed by a grueling battle for recovery. A summer encounter with his heroes at Toronto FC, culminating in midfielder Djordje Mihailovic’s public call for “more Zachs,” coincided with a painful and protracted hospital stay.
The source of Zach’s suffering was a condition that relentlessly twisted his knees inward, demanding a surgery so invasive it involved breaking and re-pinning his legs in multiple places. At 17, living with cerebral palsy, Zach faced four long months confined within hospital walls, enduring relentless physiotherapy and determined hallway “marathons” with his walker.
Even amidst such hardship, Zach’s spirit shone through. As he was wheeled into the operating room, he playfully fashioned his surgical cap into a conehead, a defiant act of humor in the face of immense physical challenge. It was a small gesture, but one that spoke volumes about his resilience.
The initial weeks after his October discharge were discouraging. Zach felt behind in school, grappling with the demands of Grade 11 coursework while still recovering. He worried his progress wasn’t matching the pace of a previous surgery in 2021, a procedure designed to alleviate pressure on his legs.
Then came a pivotal moment, a reassuring word from his surgeon: “That was muscles. This was bones. You’re rockin’ it.” The news was a revelation, a turning point that ignited a renewed sense of hope. Zach realized the cumulative effects of his hard work were finally converging, shifting the trajectory of his year.
The surgery not only brought physical improvement but also unexpected benefits. Zach found himself taller, relying on canes for mobility around the house, and returning to activities he loved. He rejoined his Volt hockey team, preparing for an upcoming tournament, and steadily caught up on his studies.
But the most remarkable breakthrough occurred in the swimming pool. A veteran of the Flames team, Zach had long been eager to compete in para-swimming, but testing had been repeatedly delayed. When he finally entered the arena, he was classified as an S2 – a category so rare that few quadriplegics even attempt to compete.
“I guess not too many quadriplegics have said, ‘Great, I can’t really move, so let’s see if I can swim,’” Zach quipped, his dry wit underscoring the audacity of his ambition. Yet, for years, he had been training and pushing his limits, defying expectations and challenging conventional wisdom.
The supportive environment at Variety Village played a crucial role in Zach’s journey. No one questioned his ability or discouraged his pursuit, fostering a belief in his potential. His family echoed this unwavering support, famously “tossing him in” the pool, confident in his determination to conquer the water.
Now, Zach Rayment stands on the cusp of something extraordinary – a potential career as a world-class para-swimmer. Coaches are refining his technique, preparing him for national and potentially international competitions. His father has already begun researching the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.
For Zach, 2028 isn’t just a distant date; it’s a beacon of possibility. A year that could represent the culmination of years of struggle, resilience, and unwavering determination. It’s a testament to the power of the human spirit and the extraordinary things that can be achieved when limitations are challenged and dreams are pursued with relentless passion.
Zach emphasizes that Variety Village is more than just a facility; it’s a community built on genuine care and mutual support. It’s a place where individuals are valued for who they are, not defined by their challenges, and where everyone is empowered to reach their full potential.
