It is widely known that engaging in physical activities not only enhances one’s physical well-being but also strengthens their mental resilience, thereby aiding in surmounting challenges. Manuel Basilisco exemplifies this perfectly. At the age of 16, this young man, originally from Rome but now living in Adeje in the south of the Island since 2014, faced hydrocephalus while his mother was seven months pregnant. Consequently, he underwent surgery just 14 days after birth. This led to him grappling with left hemiparesis from a tender age, affecting mobility on one side of his body. Despite the adversities life presented him, Manuel showed remarkable perseverance to overcome them.
Sports played a pivotal role in Manuel’s life, as he currently attends IES Adeje. His parents, Simone Basilisco and Francesca Zoppetti, shared with DIARIO DE AVISOS their journey of progress and highlighted the crucial role exercise played in his physical and mental development. “From early on, Manuel faced numerous challenges. A brain hemorrhage caused a blood clot that obstructed his peritoneal ventricle, leading to the insertion of a valve at just 14 days old to ensure proper brain function,” they recounted.
Following a successful procedure, Simone and Francesca admitted, “We were apprehensive, uncertain of the potential brain damage.” Nevertheless, Manuel, as his parents described, tackled one obstacle after another: “Learning to walk was a significant milestone, achieved at two years old. Another challenge he conquered was becoming self-sufficient, like pulling up his pants, to attend school.”
Confronting his limitations at a young age, Manuel questioned, “Why do other children play at the park while I have frequent doctor visits?” A concept he couldn’t grasp initially. This stemmed from consistent physical therapy sessions and regular hospital check-ups since childhood,” they added.
When Manuel was eight, he relocated to Tenerife with his parents and younger brother, Iván. Due to his disability, Simone and Francesca noted that he “adapted well academically but struggled with social integration due to his disability, facing bullying. Society often values those who achieve success effortlessly over those who work hard.”
At the age of 11, Manuel encountered another challenge when he started experiencing epileptic seizures. Despite ongoing issues, he manages them with medication. Currently in the 4th year of ESO at IES Adeje, Manuel is under a diversified curriculum due to cognitive difficulties,” as indicated by his parents.
Sport remained Manuel’s steadfast companion, embodying an essential aspect of his life. Despite mobility challenges on his left side affecting his arm and leg, he participates in indoor soccer and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. His dedication to sports is evident through futsal practice at EMF Adeje, enhancing his motor skills and mobility. Securing a position on his team, he continues to progress,” his parents highlighted.
Simone and Francesca, proud of their son’s determination, witness his self-belief and confidence bloom: “He is a natural fighter, infusing enthusiasm into everything he does. Despite initial frustrations from delayed progress compared to peers, he now exudes confidence and self-assurance. His perseverance propelled him forward, adapting to his physical limitations. Achieving a blue belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and excelling in soccer, he diligently improves his fitness levels daily.”
Emphasizing the camaraderie within his futsal team, EMF Adeje, his parents remarked, “He enjoys a strong bond with teammates, supporting each other along with their coaches. One of the greatest lessons from sports has been Manuel’s growth in handling setbacks, leading to continuous improvement.”
EMF Adeje competes in an introductory futsal league, established by the Sports department of the Adeje City Council and the Futsal Technical Committee of the Inter-island Futsal Federation (FIFT), aiming to encourage non-professional and predominantly Southern Island teams’ participation,” reveals coach Gustavo Redondo to FIFT. “Among our 80 players, he ranks among the top three in ball mastery. Despite constraints on his left leg, his right leg’s competence in soccer and futsal shines through.”
Redondo also highlighted the club’s ethos centred around personal development: “Our primary focus lies in nurturing each player’s personal growth. Manuel’s journey epitomizes the essence of resilience and determination as he continues to thrive against all odds.”
“Offering a Fun Environment for Children without Competition”
A Fulfilling Life
Simone and Francesca believe that their son is experiencing a fulfilling life, surrounded by a positive atmosphere: “As parents, we see Manuel enjoying the life he leads. He may aspire to further improvements, but he has never voiced complaints. On the contrary, he has always been resolute and disciplined.” Manuel intends to pursue further studies and “remain connected to football, as his dream is to become a coach.”
The story of Manuel Basilisco is one of many tales of resilience that exemplify the idea that “if you can’t fly, run; if you can’t run, walk; if you can’t walk, crawl, but keep moving towards your goal,” as Martin Luther King once conveyed. “During the lockdown period, his coach set each player a challenge to juggle a toilet paper roll five times. Manuel practiced tirelessly throughout the day until he succeeded. He embodies the spirit of an indefatigable fighter,” mention Simone and Francesca.
