Amputee Olympic Athlete Inspires
If your child has ever had a setback in sports, academics, in their social life, there are many examples of people who worked hard and persevered and made a success of themselves. Natalie Du Toit is one of those athletes. Last Wednesday, the South African Olympian made her debut amidst 24 others swimmers in the 10K swim marathon event. She was just like any other athlete there, except for one visible difference. She had one prosthetic leg.
Losing the leg in a 2001 motorcycle accident could have left her depressed, and to lose hope of a normal life. It would be a normal and acceptable response for anyone. But that this athlete did not let that event define the rest of her life. Having come close to qualifying for the Sydney Olympics in 2000, she was back to training six months after the accident.
The 24 year old was there at Beijing, and finished, albeit in 16th place. She may not be happy with her result, but she is an inspiration nonetheless. Her time of 2 hours and 49.9 seconds were better than 9 others. These are the kind of heroes our kids can definitely look up to.
Source: NBC Olympics
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