SYDNEY MARSHBURN

Experiencing the Paris 2024 Paralympics as an LA 2028 Hopeful

The 2024 Paralympics in Paris were more than just a global gathering of elite athletes; they were a vision of what my future could hold. The city, alive with history and passion, set the perfect stage for athletes who have rewritten their own narratives and transformed what it means to have a disability. As a hopeful for the LA 2028 Paralympics, attending the Games in Paris was an unforgettable experience—a blend of inspiration, challenge, and determination. My time in Paris was not solely as a spectator, but as an athlete on a journey that I hope will result in my own moment of greatness on the world stage.

Paris’ energy was palpable. Athletes from all corners of the globe converged into the city, each carrying stories of perseverance and triumph. The air buzzed with excitement, not just from the athletic events but from the shared understanding and appreciation that every individual present had overcome immense challenges to be there. As someone on a similar path, I felt an immediate connection to these athletes. Their victories resonated with me deeply. Each event I attended felt like a preview of what could be possible for me — if I worked hard enough, believed enough, and pushed myself beyond what I thought were my limits.

During the 2024 Opening Ceremony, I was overcome with emotions; the moment felt surreal. Three years prior, I watched the Tokyo 2021 Paralympic Opening Ceremony with a heavy heart. It was the night before I lost my leg, and my future felt uncertain. As I watched those incredible athletes, I was in awe of their strength and resilience, and I promised myself to work hard enough to find myself on a similar path.

Witnessing the Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Paralympic Games, I found myself beaming with SYDNEY MARSHBURN gratitude and overwhelming joy. The journey from 2021 to 2024 has been one of immense growth, perseverance, and self-discovery. I’ve faced complications I never thought I’d overcome, yet here I was, stronger and more determined than ever. As I stood in the stadium – the crowd’s energy, the pride in the athletes’ faces, and the powerful performances all around me – I couldn’t help but cry. I cried for the person I was three years ago, scared but hopeful, and for the person I am now—proud, empowered, and ready to embrace whatever comes next. This moment was a beautiful full-circle celebration, highlighting that Paris 2024 is more than just an event to me—it’s a testament to how far I’ve come.

However, the experience was also a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead. Watching these elite athletes compete at such a high level made me acutely aware of the gap between where I am now and where I need to be in order to bridge that gap by 2028. It was both inspiring and intimidating.

“IF THEY COULD DO IT, WHY COULDN’T I?

The precision of their movements, the intensity of their focus, and the unyielding determination in their eyes—these are not feats that can be achieved overnight. They are the result of years of relentless training, discipline, and the ability to overcome not just physical barriers but mental ones as well. ‘Could I ever reach that level?’ The question haunted me throughout my time in Paris. It’s easy to feel inspired when surrounded by greatness, but believing you can be part of that greatness is entirely different. The doubts crept in, whispering that perhaps I wasn’t cut out for this, that the obstacles were too great. But as I continued to watch these athletes, each facing unique challenges, those doubts began to diminish. ‘If they could do it, why couldn’t I?’

Paris offered the opportunity to meet and interact with athletes and coaches, many of whom were generous with their time and advice. These conversations were invaluable. They didn’t sugarcoat the realities of training for the Paralympics—it’s both physically and mentally grueling. The sacrifices are immense, and the road to competition can be lonely. But they also spoke of the rewards: the sense of purpose, the community, and the indescribable feeling of representing something bigger than oneself. These insights fueled my determination. They reminded me of why I started this journey in the first place and why I must continue, no matter how challenging it gets.

Follow Syndey’s journey on Instagram @syndeym87

The camaraderie amongst the athletes was another aspect of the Games that left a lasting impression on me. Despite the fierce competition, there was profound mutual respect and support between the competitors. I saw athletes from different countries, who didn’t speak the same language, embrace each other after a race. I witnessed competitors consoling one another after a loss and celebrating together after a win. This sense of unity, the feeling of being part of something larger than the individual, is something I hope to experience firsthand in LA. It’s not just about winning; it’s about being part of a community that understands your journey, setbacks, and triumphs.

As my time in France drew to a close, I reflected on what this experience meant for me. It was a glimpse into a world I am striving to be a part of—a world that demands everything but also gives everything in return. The Paris Paralympics solidified my resolve to make it to LA 2028. The road ahead is daunting, filled with obstacles that will test my limitations. But it is also a road paved with possibility, with dreams waiting to be realized. Leaving Paris, I carried more than just memories; I carried a renewed sense of purpose. The Paralympics are not just a goal—they are a promise I’ve made to myself, a testament to what I can achieve if I remain focused and dedicated. The athletes I watched, the lessons I learned, and the emotions I felt will all serve as fuel as I continue my mission these next four years. I now understand that the dream of competing in LA 2028 is not just a distant hope— but a future within my grasp.

Delano D. Massey of New Vision O&P

The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games were more than just an event—they were a mirror reflecting my aspirations and the path I must take to reach them. They were a challenge and a dream rolled into one, a powerful reminder that the journey to greatness is never easy but always worth it. As I look toward LA 2028, I do so with a heart full of hope, a mind steeled with determination, and a spirit ready to face whatever comes next.

This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity would not have been possible without Delano Massey and New Vision Orthotics and Prosthetic Clinics. Delano’s belief in my potential has been incredibly encouraging; when he invited me to join him in Paris to watch the 2024 Paralympics, I could not refuse. This experience strengthened our connection and made me more determined than ever to chase my Paralympic aspirations. I look forward to collaborating with him and New Vision over the next four years (and beyond) as we continue to push boundaries and make a difference.

To learn more about New Vision Orthotics and Prosthetic Clinics, please visit (NewVisionOp.com)