Actress Kirsty Strain, known for her role in the comedy series Burnistoun, has revealed that she was bedridden for a year due to undiagnosed ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis) following glandular fever at the age of nine. Struggling with her illness, she found solace and inspiration in the movie Rocky IV, naming her illness Ivan after the film's antagonist. The film's philosophy of perseverance and facing fears resonated with her, and she saw herself as battling her illness like Rocky. Despite her weakness, Kirsty's parents fought for her and eventually, she returned to education and pursued a career in acting. She has since appeared in various TV shows and stage productions, crediting Rocky for motivating her and helping her overcome her chronic fatigue syndrome. Through studying the impact of trauma from serious illnesses on the body and using plant-based medicine, Kirsty is now pain and symptom-free. Her story serves as an inspiration to others facing debilitating illnesses and highlights the power of resilience and finding inspiration in unexpected places.
Sylvester Stallone, the actor who portrayed Rocky Balboa in the Rocky film series, also faced rejection and struggles in his career. In the early '70s, Stallone struggled as an actor and even slept at bus terminals. He was denied a role as an extra in 'The Godfather' because he 'wasn't Italian enough'. This rejection inspired Stallone to write 'Rocky', a story about a working-class underdog who becomes a world boxing champion. Stallone's peculiar speaking manner and appearance made studios believe he was uncastable. 'Rocky' was released on November 21, 1976, directed by John G. Avildsen and starred Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young, Burgess Meredith, and Thayer David. Stallone's rejection from 'The Godfather' motivated him to write unique roles for himself and refuse to sell the screenplay unless he was guaranteed to star in it. The article highlights Stallone's struggles in the early '70s and his determination to make it in the film industry.
Kirsty Strain's story of finding inspiration in Rocky IV and overcoming her illness aligns with Stallone's own journey of using rejection as motivation to create a successful film franchise. Both stories emphasize the power of resilience, determination, and finding inspiration in unexpected places.
In addition to Kirsty Strain's story, actress Sharon Stone's resilience and recovery from a stroke and financial loss serve as another example of overcoming adversity. Stone suffered a massive stroke in 2001, leading to a nine-day brain hemorrhage. She experienced physical and financial challenges, losing $18 million and having to rebuild her life. Despite the adversity, Stone chose to stay positive and live for joy and purpose. It took her seven years to fully recover. She also had to redefine her place in the industry and faced financial setbacks. Stone's story is about remarkable recovery, resilience, and finding joy in the face of adversity. Her journey serves as a beacon of hope and emphasizes the importance of mental fortitude and positivity [f94001dd].