The Trials of a Paralympian Whose Disability Doesn’t Always Show
An Invisible Disability
Paralympian Jessica Long is an inspiration for many. She has won 23 Paralympic medals, including 13 golds. She holds the record for the most medals won by any American at a single Paralympic Games, with eight medals at the 2012 London Games. She is one of the most dominant Paralympic athletes in swimming history, competing as a double amputee after being born with fibular hemimelia, a condition that led to her legs being amputated below the knee when she was just 18 months old.
But for a Paralympian, Long faces a unique challenge. Her disability is not always visible. This can make it difficult for her to get the support she needs, both on and off the field.
Not Meeting Expectations
Long has said she has often felt like she had to prove herself every single day. She has to work harder than other athletes to be taken seriously. She said she has felt like she doesn't always meet people's expectations. Many people see her athletic accomplishments and think that she must not have that many challenges in life. She has even received hate mail from people who accuse her of faking her disability.
The pressure to prove herself has led Long to develop an eating disorder. She has also struggled with depression and anxiety.
A Need for Understanding
Long wants people to understand that invisible disabilities are just as real as visible disabilities. She wants people to be more understanding and supportive of people with invisible disabilities.
She said, "I want people to understand that just because you can't see my disability doesn't mean it's not there. I still have to deal with the same challenges as other Paralympians. I still have to work hard to achieve my goals. I still need the same support as other Paralympians. And I still deserve to be treated with the same respect as other Paralympians."
Overcoming Challenges
Despite the challenges, Long has not given up. She has used her platform to speak out about the importance of inclusion and acceptance. She has also started a foundation to help other people with disabilities.
She said, "I want to show the world that people with disabilities can do anything they set their minds to. We may have to work harder than others but we can achieve anything we want. We just need the same opportunities and the same support as everyone else."
Steps for Overcoming Challenges with Invisible Disabilities
- Be Patient and Understanding with Yourself
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
- Find a Support Group or Therapist
- Focus on Your Abilities
- Educate Others About Your Disability
- Advocate for Yourself and Others
Conclusion
Long's story is an inspiration to us all. She shows us that anything is possible when we overcome our challenges head-on. She is a role model for people with disabilities and a champion for inclusion and acceptance.
We should all follow Long's example and be more understanding and supportive of people with invisible disabilities. We should never take their challenges for granted and we should always treat them with the same respect as everyone else.
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