Brenna Huckaby is a force to be reckoned with. As a two-time Paralympic gold medalist and world champion in snowboarding, she has overcome immense challenges and proven that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and a positive mindset. In this article, we will explore Brenna’s journey and share the lessons we can all learn from her inspiring story.
Brenna’s Early Life and Diagnosis
Brenna was born on January 22, 1996, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She grew up with a love for sports and spent most of her childhood playing soccer, basketball, and softball. However, at the age of 14, her life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer.
The diagnosis was devastating for Brenna and her family. She underwent a grueling treatment process that included chemotherapy and the amputation of her right leg above the knee. It was a difficult time for Brenna, but she refused to let her diagnosis define her. She remained positive and focused on her goals, determined to overcome the challenges ahead.
Discovering a Passion for Snowboarding
After her treatment, Brenna was introduced to snowboarding through the Challenged Athletes Foundation. She was hesitant at first but soon fell in love with the sport. Snowboarding gave Brenna a sense of freedom and allowed her to push her physical and mental limits in a way she never thought possible.
Brenna quickly excelled in snowboarding and became a two-time Paralympic gold medalist and world champion. She has also won numerous X Games medals and is considered one of the best adaptive snowboarders in the world.
Lessons Learned from Brenna’s Journey
Brenna’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and a never-give-up attitude. Her story offers valuable lessons for anyone facing adversity or striving to achieve their goals.
- Never Give Up
Despite facing one of the biggest challenges of her life, Brenna never gave up. She remained positive and determined to overcome her diagnosis and pursue her dreams. Her perseverance is a reminder that anything is possible with hard work and determination.
- Embrace Challenges
Brenna’s journey has been full of challenges, but she has embraced each one as an opportunity to grow and learn. Her approach to challenges is a testament to the power of a positive mindset and the importance of embracing adversity as an opportunity for growth.
- Believe in Yourself
Brenna’s success in snowboarding is a result of her unwavering belief in herself. She refused to let her amputation hold her back and believed that she could achieve anything she set her mind to. Her self-belief is a reminder that we are capable of achieving incredible things when we believe in ourselves.
- Focus on the Journey
Brenna’s success in snowboarding is impressive, but it is her journey that is truly inspiring. She has overcome immense challenges and grown as a person, athlete, and advocate for adaptive sports. Her focus on the journey is a reminder that success is not just about achieving goals, but about the process of growth and self-discovery along the way.
- Use Your Platform for Good
Brenna has used her platform as a Paralympic athlete to advocate for adaptive sports and inspire others facing challenges. Her commitment to making a positive impact on the world is a reminder that we all have the power to make a difference and use our talents and passions for good.
Conclusion
Brenna Huckaby’s journey is one of courage, determination, and resilience. Her story serves as a reminder that we are capable of achieving incredible things when we believe in ourselves, embrace challenges, and remain focused on the journey.
Today you can catch Huckaby in PyeongChang where she competes in the 2018 Winter Paralympics.
Brenna says she is overjoyed by the outpour of support she’s already received from other women with disabilities.
She talks about body positivity in her personal life. “I haven’t always been comfortable with my body. When I was a teenager, I would wear shorts with my swimsuit every time. I would rarely take my prosthetic off in front of other people. I was afraid of what people would think of me because I didn’t think very highly of myself. It wasn’t until I had my daughter that I realized my body was more than an object. That was the moment I knew my body was a tool, a strong and forceful tool that takes me from experience to experience. Once I realized this I finally loved my body,” said Huckaby for SI.
According to Men’s Health, in 2010, Brenna Huckaby was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer — a diagnosis that, due to complications, forced doctors to amputate her right leg. She was only a freshman in high school, and describes that time in her life as her “lowest of low.” During her junior year, she moved to Utah from Louisiana, where the former gymnast took up snowboarding as a way to get back into sports, and the rest is history.
What is more, Brenna is a great mom to her 17-month-old daughter. “When she’s older I hope she is also inspired, motivated, and empowered by my swimsuit shots. I hope she’ll know the courage it took for me to pose in a swimsuit, and I hope that motivates her to step out of her comfort zone.”
Recall, that was the very first sexy photoshoot for Paralympian. And have to say it is a giant step for the body positivity movement.
