Jesi Stracham

Breaking barriers and paying the way

- Pauline Mackenzie

"I think my favourite thing about being a paralyzed athlete is that I'm breaking barriers and paving the way in sports, showing people with disabilities that it can be done and then reaching out to the non-disabled community to say, hey, you can come help us do this."

She's not your average athlete, nor is she content with merely inspiring others. Jesi Stracham is on a mission to motivate, empower and break down barriers in the most extraordinary way possible. Hers is a remarkable spirit that finds its greatest joy in shattering barriers and illuminating the path for those who may doubt their capabilities. In 2015, her life took an unexpected turn when an accident left her paralyzed. Instead of succumbing to despair, she embraced a life of activity and purpose.

Discovering the power of community

Even before her life-altering accident, Jesi understood the therapeutic value of exercise, a sanctuary for her mental well-being and a source of unyielding strength. However, it was in the world of adaptive sports that she uncovered something even more profound-community. Jesi passionately emphasizes the power of embracing communities. Camaraderie develops, bonds that transcend physical limitations and resources are at your fingertips.

"The community," she says, "offers resources and support beyond imagination, reminding us that we need each other more than we realize." In February 2017, a fall in a hotel room prompted Jesi to share her story on YouTube. The response was overwhelming, leading her to leverage the power of the closely connected digital world and the communities that reside there, to inspire hope in others-motivating individuals to find opportunities in every obstacle even after life's most daunting challenges.

Adaptive sports and fitness