From Out of Violence

Three U.S. Paralympians talk about perseverance and triumph

U.S. Paralympians Talk Perseverance, Triumph and Joy

To be eligible To compete in the Paralympic Games, going on through September 5 in Tokyo, an athlete must have at least one of 10 impairments. Some Paralympians were born with these conditions, while others acquired them through disease or accident. Three Team USA Paralympians are members of a third group: those who experienced life-changing violence. Their individual stories and circumstances are different, but each of them has endured nightmares that easily could have destroyed them to become elite athletes competing at the top of their respective sports.

DIVING IN Team USA swimmer Haven Shepherd competing in the women’s 200 meter individual medley during the Paralympics in Tokyo. She placed fifth in the final.