Elliot Barrington has opened up about one of the most difficult periods of his life, revealing that after becoming paralysed, he forgave a former partner who cheated on him with someone he considered to be like a brother. Barrington said he remained in the relationship for a long time after the betrayal. At the time, he told himself that his decision to stay was motivated by love, but looking back, he now acknowledges there was another reason he struggled to let go. He was afraid of being alone. Barrington was already dealing with a life-changing situation after becoming paralysed and trying to accept the possibility that he would never walk again. His physical struggles were also severe. He recalled suffering from grade four pressure sores while attempting to recover and adjust to a completely different life. At the same time, he had little idea what his future would look like. While fighting to get physically better and come to terms with his paralysis, Barrington said he was also fighting to hold on to his relationship. Eventually, that relationship ended. Barrington admitted that being alone afterwards was difficult, but the experience ultimately revealed a level of strength he did not realise he possessed. He began rebuilding his life and confidence and started seeing himself differently. Barrington said the experience taught him that people sometimes remain in relationships, friendships or even jobs because they are afraid of what will happen next. He is now sharing his story in the hope that someone experiencing a similar situation will recognise that letting go does not necessarily mean the end. Sometimes, he said, letting go can be the beginning of rebuilding a new life. Barrington eventually reached a point where he realised he was capable of trusting and loving someone again. His message to others is to learn from their past without continuing to live in it and, regardless of what they may be facing, to keep pushing forward.
