Overcoming adversity: Italian law enforcer captivates global audience from Dubai
Dubai: In a sea of powerful leaders from over 110 countries, at the World Police Summit, one radiant woman stole the show. Not through grand speeches or imposing presence, but by wheeling across the stage with courage and grace.
Meet Adele Gesso, a Deputy Inspector with the Italian State Police - Road Police. At a special ceremony at the Dubai Police Officers Club, she received the People of Determination Excellence Award and brought a roomful of leaders to their feet in a standing ovation. The reason? Her tale of resilience and unbreakable spirit.
It wasn't just an award, it was a beacon of hope, a testament to the fact that strength comes in many forms.
The Fate-Changing Accident
The turning point in Adele's life occurred on September 16, 1996, when she was on duty with a colleague on the A6 highway in Italy. Responding to an urgent call, their police car was suddenly rear-ended by another vehicle. The impact left Adele with a permanent spinal injury, and her colleague sustained a serious head injury.
The shock of losing her ability to walk and wear the beloved police uniform was devastating. "It was incredibly hard to accept," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "I loved being a police officer. Going back to work and seeing everyone in uniform while I couldn’t wear mine anymore made me feel weak and dependent."
A New Path Forward
But Adele chose not to be a victim. After years of arduous recovery and rehabilitation, she returned to work in 1999. She acquired a specially adapted driver's license and continued her service, even if her role had changed.
"I didn't choose to be injured," she said. "But I chose to keep going. That was my freedom."
Her department and colleagues rallied around her, making necessary adjustments to her office and encouraging her to find new ways to serve.
Educating through Experience
Adele began visiting schools and universities across Italy, sharing her story and emphasizing the importance of road safety. Her message was simple yet powerful: "A disability doesn't stop you from making a difference."
Beyond educating students, she trained other police officers and became involved in traffic safety programs like Project Icaro. At conferences and workshops, she shared her experiences in an effort to protect both officers and the public.
A Surprising Deliverance
In 2017, as Adele was about to leave her home to give a talk at a local school, there was a knock on her door. Opening it, she found a group of police officers holding a box wrapped in blue ribbon, emblazoned with the police logo. Inside was her official police uniform—fresh, pressed, and bearing her same rank. Also included was an updated version of the uniform, featuring her name and new role as a symbol of civic awareness.
"I didn't ask for this," she said, deeply moved as she held the uniform. "But it came just when I needed it most."
That day, after years, she wore her uniform once again—not for patrol duties, but as a symbol of pride and purpose.
A Dubai Calling
In Dubai, as she accepted the award, Adele thanked the Dubai Police for recognizing her journey.
"This is more than just an award," she said. "It sends a message to the world—that a wheelchair can’t stop someone from making a difference."
She also expressed her gratitude to Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, for supporting people of determination.
"This award is not just for me," she said. "It’s for everyone who keeps going, even when life gets hard."
Looking Forward
Today, Adele continues her work, inspiring and educating others. Her story serves as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience and serves as a source of hope for those facing similar adversities. Her journey reaffirms that every challenge in life is an opportunity to grow and find a new path forward.
"Life is always an opportunity," she said. "You can always find a new way to move forward if you stay strong and keep your goals in sight."
Join us in celebrating Adele Gesso, a truly inspiring woman and a shining example of human resilience.
- In her continuing efforts to advocate for road safety, Adele Gesso has expanded her work beyond Italy, now addressing sustainable-living practices in home-and-garden seminars, emphasizing the importance of reducing carbon footprints and promoting eco-friendly lifestyles as part of her commitment to a sustainable living.
- Recognizing Adele's impact and her dedication to nurturing a better lifestyle for all, the news media regularly covers her initiatives and achievements, highlighting her as an emblem of inspiration for the worldwide community, emphasizing the fusion of news, lifestyle, and her unwavering commitment to sustainable living.
