Meet Pablo, from Central Mexico, though you might know me as the peculiar “Mexican walking fish.”
The interesting twist is that I’m not actually a fish, I’m an amphibian.
What sets me apart is my incredible regenerative prowess. If I happen to lose a limb, no worries—I’ll grow it back in just a few weeks.
Some of us might even sprout extra limbs, just for fun! And if I suffer a head injury, I can repair my own brain and lungs, leaving no scars behind.
Here’s the real showstopper: crush my spinal cord, and within three weeks, all the machinery will reconnect, and I’ll be back in action, tail and legs included. How do I do it, you ask? Well, I have this nifty ability to transform nearby cells into stem cells, and they diligently recreate bones, skin, and veins, restoring everything to its original state. Quite the party trick, right?
Sadly, we’re becoming a rarity in Central Mexico, so you’re more likely to find us in laboratories. Scientists are still scratching their heads over our regenerative powers, hoping one day to unlock the secrets that could cure paralysis.
Now, about my culinary preferences—I’m a carnivore, and bloodworms are my all-time favourite snack.
And finally, my life mantra: “Al mal tiempo, buena cara,” which translates to “Put a good face to the bad times. Be positive.” Words to live by!
At The Next Step Recovery and Wellness Centre in Melbourne, our mission is to provide tailored programs and services for athletes recovering from spinal cord injuries and neurological conditions. Our Athlete Scholarship Program secures generous funding for athletes without financial support.