Unbreakable - Eric Gabriel: A Journey of Grit, Loss & Triumph

Born and raised in Levittown, Long Island, Dr. Eric William Gabriel grew up with a love for school and sports, especially baseball and softball. His aggressive playing style—sliding headfirst into bases with little protection—took a toll on his knees, leading to years of surgeries, pain, and ultimately, life-changing decisions.

In 2009, Eric faced a crossroads: endure relentless pain and immobility or amputate his right leg. He chose the latter. Nine years later, in 2018, he underwent a second amputation, losing his left leg as well. What could have been the darkest chapter of his life became the beginning of a new journey.

Eric discovered adaptive rowing and transformed his loss into a newfound passion. Competing in the World Indoor Rowing Adaptive Championships, he earned a silver medal and later claimed victory in the 60+ lower-leg amputee category. In 2012, he was even invited to try out for the U.S. Paralympic Rowing Team.

This documentary captures Eric’s resilience, the highs and lows of his journey, and the unbreakable spirit that keeps him pushing forward. His story is one of perseverance, reinvention, and the power of adaptive sports to redefine what’s possible.

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