In summer 2012, the world’s attention was fixed on London.
But while the spotlight shone most intensely on the athletes competing in the Olympic Games, these were not the only champions competing in the city. The Paralympics, held for those with disabilities, was in full gear from Aug. 29 – Sept. 9.
Among those competing for the United States was Monica Bascio, an occupational therapist at Life Care Center of Evergreen, Colo. This was her second Paralympic Games.
In 1992, Bascio and some friends were skiing near Lake Tahoe. While navigating a jump, she crashed, exploding her T12 vertebrae, severing her spinal cord and paralyzing her completely from the waist down.
Bascio wouldn’t let the setback keep her down. It was after her accident she pursued her career as a therapist, helping others to overcome their own situations.
Nor could the accident keep Bascio from doing what she loves.
Just look at the two silver medals she won in cycling this summer – one for the 16-kilometer individual time trial and the other for a 48-kilometer road race.
“Sports competition provides balance in my life,” Bascio said, “and winning those silver medals was hugely fulfilling to me.”
Read more about Bascio’s accomplishments on her website: monicabascio.net.