Episode Details

In this episode, I had the honour of speaking with Brianna, a 2x Paralympian, a remarkable athlete who has made history as the first Canadian to do both the canoe and kayak events at the Paralympic games.  She was the first to receive a medal in para-canoe and the flag bearer at the closing ceremonies in London in 2024. Brianna is a 12xs world medalist between 3 parasports. Brianna shares her journey from being an able-bodied athlete in various sports to navigating the challenges of life after a catastrophic accident that left her with a brain injury and physical disabilities. Brianna reflects on her recent experience at the Paralympics in Paris, where she earned a silver medal and was honoured to be a flag bearer for Canada. This recognition, she explains, was a culmination of her hard work and advocacy for people with disabilities, which she holds close to her heart.

Throughout our conversation, Brianna shares her personal story of resilience, detailing the traumatic accident that changed her life ten years ago. She recounts the moments in the hospital, the struggle with depression, and the pivotal decision to embrace parasport as a means of reclaiming her identity and purpose. Her journey into parasport was sparked by watching wheelchair rugby players, which inspired her to take the leap and join a community that celebrates abilities rather than disabilities.

Brianna emphasizes the significance of perspective and gratitude. She encourages listeners to focus on what they have rather than what they've lost, sharing her personal mottos that guide her through tough times. Her story is a testament to the power of the human spirit, resilience, and the importance of community support.

HIGHLIGHTS
00:01:00 - Recent Achievements at the Paralympics
00:02:30 - Life as a High-Level Athlete
00:04:30 - Balancing Health and Training
00:06:00 - The Role of Coaching
00:07:30 - Brianna's Injury Story
00:10:00 - Overcoming Depression and Finding Purpose
00:12:30 - Discovering Para-Sport
00:15:00 - The Importance of Community
00:18:00 - Inspiring Young Athletes
00:20:00 - The Cost of Being an Athlete
00:22:30 - Funding and Support for Athletes
00:26:00 - Mental Health and Self-Reflection
00:29:00 - The Power of Perspective
00:32:00 - Resilience in Adversity
00:34:00 - The Journey Over the Destination
00:38:00 - The Fragility of Life
00:40:00 - Self-Fulfilling Prophecies and Support

Connect with Brianna
YouTube: https://youtu.be/eVmJhS33iyw?si=H6pkrWmYPbwc_SN_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breezerhennessy
CanFund : www.mycanfund.ca

Marsha Vanwynsberghe — NLP Storytelling Trainer, OUTSPOKEN NLP Coaching Certification, Author, Speaker, and Podcaster

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