Mortara, Italy – Monica Zordan’s life is a compelling story of resilience, positivity and the power of sport. Her recently completed book, “Trova sempre qualcosa per cui ridere” (Always Discover Something to Laugh About), details a life marked by physical challenges – from being born with spina bifida to undergoing an amputation later in life – yet consistently embraced with a remarkable spirit. The book, roughly 70 pages in length, isn’t a tale of overcoming adversity, but rather a testament to finding normalcy within it. Zordan will discuss her experiences publicly on Tuesday, March 17th, at 7:30 PM at the Francesco Pezza Civic Library in Mortara.
Zordan’s journey isn’t defined by her disabilities, but by her determination to live a full and active life. A mother of four, she seamlessly integrates the demands of family with her passion for archery. It’s through archery, she explains, that she’s found a unique sense of equality and belonging. The sport, she says, is a “leveler” – a space where both able-bodied and disabled athletes face the same challenges and strive for the same goal: hitting the bullseye.
“In this volume, I recount a snapshot of my life,” Zordan explains. “I explain what it’s like to be born with a disability and then focus on the importance of practicing sport. I want to make these realities known and help everyone understand that mental barriers are stronger than structural ones. We are all the same: there is no difference between able-bodied and disabled people; we all operate just as hard to achieve the same goals.”
For Zordan, achieving a goal is always accompanied by a journey filled with smiles. It’s a personal challenge to be faced and overcome. This approach has defined her life, and now her involvement with the Arcieri dell’Olmo archery club. The story highlights the importance of finding activities that foster a sense of community and purpose.
Zordan’s return to archery, after a 13-year hiatus following her amputation, was spurred by her son, Sean. His simple question – “Why don’t you come to the gym and endeavor?” – reignited a passion she’d thought she’d left behind. She initially encountered the sport during rehabilitation at the Inail Budrio center, where a variety of activities were offered. But it was Sean’s encouragement that brought her back to the range in the autumn of 2025.
“Shooting each arrow is like launching something that frees me from my disability,” Zordan says. “It’s like forcefully stating, ‘I’m still here.’” She emphasizes that sport isn’t about waiting for assistance, but about taking initiative and actively participating in life. This sentiment underscores the book’s central theme: the pursuit of a “normal” life, defined not by the absence of challenges, but by the courage to face them with a smile.
The book, as described, isn’t a clinical account of medical struggles, but a deeply personal reflection on finding joy and purpose in everyday life. It’s a story about breaking down preconceived notions of what it means to be “normal” and celebrating the shared human experience. Zordan’s narrative offers a powerful message about the importance of inclusivity and the transformative power of sport.
The impact of Zordan’s story extends beyond the personal. It challenges societal perceptions of disability and promotes a more inclusive understanding of what it means to live a fulfilling life. Her willingness to share her experiences, both in her book and through public appearances like the one scheduled at the Francesco Pezza Civic Library, is a testament to her commitment to fostering a more empathetic and understanding world.
Zordan’s journey with archery isn’t just about hitting targets; it’s about building connections, overcoming obstacles, and finding freedom in movement and focus. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has faced adversity and found strength in unexpected places. The book serves as a reminder that a positive attitude and a willingness to embrace life’s challenges can truly make all the difference.
The upcoming event on March 17th offers an opportunity to hear directly from Monica Zordan about her experiences and the inspiration behind “Trova sempre qualcosa per cui ridere.” It’s a chance to gain a deeper understanding of her philosophy and the message she hopes to share with the world.
Monica Zordan’s story is a powerful reminder that normalcy isn’t a fixed state, but a perspective. It’s about finding joy in the journey, embracing challenges, and recognizing the shared humanity that connects us all. Her book and her advocacy work are inspiring examples of how one person can make a difference in the lives of others.
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