Athletes with MS - going for gold
The Tokyo Paralympics get underway today, with three athletes hoping to blaze a trail for people with MS.
Double gold medal winner Kadeena Cox MBE
Sprinter and cyclist Kadeena made history at the 2016 Rio Paralympics when she became the first British Paralympian in 32 years to win gold medals in two different sports. This incredible achievement saw her made Paralympics GB’s flag bearer at the closing ceremony.
“Representing MS at the games for me is so important because I am able to showcase what I can do with the condition rather than what I can’t do.”
Fourth Paralympics for Stephanie Millward MBE
Swimmer Stephanie will be competing in her fourth Paralympics. After a debut at the Beijing games in 2008, Stephanie won five medals at London 2012, before achieving her dream by winning two gold medals in Rio.
“I fight to be the best I can be. I want to show people you don’t have to give up on your dreams because you have MS. Keep doing what you love.”
Both Kadeena and Stephanie are proud to be MS Society Ambassadors
Dave Phillips - Paralympian with MS
Dave returned to his childhood passion of archery after taking early retirement because of his MS in 2013.
Success came quickly, winning gold at the European Para Championship in 2014 and reaching the quarter finals of the recurve mixed team competition in Rio.
Dave believes sport has the power to change lives.
“I want to use my platform as a Paralympian to say ‘please don’t give up on yourself’. I’m proof you can still have a life, you can still achieve.”
We wish Kadeena, Stephanie and Dave the very best of luck. Let’s all get behind them and cheer them on!
The Tokyo Paralympic Games take place 24 August – 5 September. Check out the schedule for the games.