We love the spirit of the Rio 2016 Paralympians – persistent, determined, motivated, dedicated. Here are 3 of Team USA medal contenders to watch.
EVAN AUSTIN – Paralympic Swimmer – Familial Spastic Paraparesis
Born with familial spastic paraparesis, an inherited disease whose main feature is progressive stiffness and contraction (spasticity) in the lower limbs, as a result of damage to or dysfunction of the nerves. His mother has the same condition but whereas it did not impact her until her late ‘40’s, Evan’s progression began at age 3. The muscles in his legs and back did not grow. It hindered his walking but by age 11, he found that the pool was his haven. He developed exceptional upper-body strength as he learned to drag himself through the water.
