7/7 bomb survivor becomes Paralympic hopeful
Martine Wiltshire, a victim of the 7/7 London bombings who lost both her legs as a result of the attack, is planning to compete in the 2012 Paralympic games. Since the bombings in 2005, Martine has learned to fly, and is now a member of the Great British women’s sitting volleyball team who hope to enter the 2012 games.
At the recent inquest into the 7/7 bombings, Martine, who gave evidence, was praised by coroner Lady Justice Hallett for her courage calling her ‘truly inspirational and a triumph of human spirit over dreadful adversity‘. I couldn’t agree more. Good luck in the Paralympics Martine!
Wheelchair user wins able-bodied event at the Commonwealth Games
At this years Commonwealth Games in Delhi, wheelchair-user Danielle Brown won gold in the able-bodied team compound archery event along with team mates Nicky Hunt and Nichola Simpson.
Danielle, age 22, has reflex sympathetic dystrophy which gives her constant pain and means she cannot stand for long periods of time. Despite this, Danielle conjured up the strength to not only stand, but also compete, leaning for support on a stool specially made for her at Loughborough University. Having battled an undiagnosed illness for years as a teenager, it just goes to show that determination and talent are what matters.
Keep your eyes peeled when watching the Commonwealth Games as there are a number of Para-Sports such as table tennis and swimming.
Quadruple amputee swims the English Channel
Not many people could, or would want to, take on the challenge of swimming the English Channel. But 42-year-old French disabled athlete Philippe Croizon, who had his arms and legs amputated after an electric shock in 1994, has completed the marathon swim from Folkestone in Kent to Cap Gris Nez in France.
It took him an impressive 13 and a half hours to swim the 21 miles, a time rumored to be the fastest set by someone with a disability. To achieve such speed Philippe used long flippers on his legs, and attachments on his arms to help balance and steering.
Philippe said the swim was ‘a symbol of overcoming your limits… I’ve done this for myself, for my family, and for all those who have suffered tragedy and lost their taste for life.’ French minister Nadine Morano stated ‘we’ve been shown that it’s possible to overcome your disabilities and have the determination to make your dreams come true. Philippe Croizon is a shining example who provides a message of hope and bravery.’
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