Finding My Sacred Place: A Paralympian's Inspirational Journey 2024

 Discovering My Sacred Place: An Olympian Recount

Becoming a Paralympian is so much more than just achieving one's personal goal. This is about representing something bigger than yourself and motivating those who are going to come after you. There's nothing like that feeling when you walk onto the track: it just feels right, and everything else fades away.

The Beginning of an Amazing Ride

She yearned, publicly and irrationally, for something I had at six: troubles no child should know that spun into a new course. The doctor simply told my parents after my last surgery "just let her play", and so I did! I should just play sports instead of rehab. This advice = life-changing. It was more than just exercise, it was about relating to people dealing with some of the same things that I had been.

Cultivating Sports-Based Community

One of the most precious things I gained from being part of a Paralympic team is community. It could be comforting to be surrounded by others who were dealing with the same issues. Basic things, such as holding a freaking bottle or shampoo; instantly became collective memories. For 11 small links that were a big deal. It was relieving to know that I wasn't the only one.

The Track: A Sacred Place

There really is a sense of relief with every single one. It is a place where the noise of this world dies out. This is my sanctuary. That is my happy place, this where I feel the wheels are in motion and life stressors have left. Every race, every training is a time to bring my spirit back.

Achieving Dreams at Rio 2016

Rio 2016 Paralympics- Dreams Fulfilled I felt great, winning gold in 800 meters and the marathon. This was the culmination of years of hard work and commitment. It was more than that, it meant proving the dream and concept could become a reality.

Embracing the Journey Ahead

You need to find your happy place. It is what has gotten me through the rough patches. Strugles confront all, yet having a haven to make it easier. For me, that's the track. To you, that may be something else. The secret is to locate it, welcome it and allow for this guiding star guide through any storm.

Amids life's éprouvent, remind yourself that you're not only. My advice, find your people become friends with the struggle and chase whatever sets you on fire. What amazing things lie in your future?