Curtis McGrath’s recent social media posts have sparked a conversation about how we talk about Para-athletes. Initially, McGrath announced he would not be participating in the Paris 2024 Paralympics. But he quickly clarified that he would be competing. This shift in language is more than just a technicality—it’s about how we view disability sports.

Competing at the Highest Level

McGrath, a three-time gold medalist, used his platform to highlight that Para-athletes are here to compete, not just participate. In Paris, he defended his kayak KL3 title and narrowly missed a bronze in the Va’a VL3 category. This shows that Paralympians are elite athletes who compete at the highest levels.

The Impact of Language

Language shapes how we view disability sports. Words like “participation medals” or “inspirational” can shift the focus from athletic skill to personal stories. The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) campaign seeks to change this. It aims to highlight Para-athletes’ competitive achievements rather than their disabilities.

Why It Matters

Using accurate language can empower Para-athletes and emphasize their skills. The campaign, supported by athletes like Ugandan swimmer Husnah Kukundakwe and Argentine wheelchair tennis player Gustavo Fernandez, shows the hard work involved in reaching the top levels of their sports. Kukundakwe mentioned that this campaign helps people understand the effort required to compete at such high levels.

Looking Ahead

As we look forward to Los Angeles 2028, it’s important to continue focusing on competition and performance. Recognizing Para-athletes for their achievements helps reflect the true spirit of the Games.

The founder and chairperson of the neurodiversity charity Neurodiversity in Business has ignited a powerful online movement after sharing a deeply personal and emotional experience. The neurodiversity charity leader, a prominent advocate for neurodiverse individuals, revealed that he was brought to tears not by the physical pain of a recent tattoo but by a hurtful comment made about his 10-year-old son, affectionately known as “The Joshie Man,” who is non-speaking and autistic.

In a heartfelt social media post, the charity leader recounted the moment he encountered a series of disparaging remarks from a woman named Kym Clinton. The comments, filled with outdated and harmful stereotypes about autism and ADHD, were aimed at both the leader and his son. Clinton’s words, which questioned the legitimacy of neurodiversity and even suggested a return to the days when children with differences were institutionalized, struck a deep nerve.

Determined to use this incident as a catalyst for change, the charity leader publicly deconstructed the hateful comments, using his platform to educate and advocate. He meticulously addressed each of the seven offensive points made by Clinton, countering them with facts, empathy, and a call for greater understanding.

“Autism and ADHD are clinically diagnosed medical conditions,” the leader wrote in response to one of Clinton’s assertions. “These conditions have been researched extensively for nearly a century, and there is no evidence to support the idea that poor parenting plays any role.”

The leader also highlighted the long history of mistreatment faced by neurodiverse individuals, referencing the dark times when children with differences were locked away in institutions and denied a formal education. He firmly rejected the notion that such practices should ever be considered acceptable again. “Thankfully, society has evolved and matured,” he stated. “I cannot imagine any family forgetting about their cherished child.”

The charity leader didn’t stop at defending his son; he also emphasized the positive contributions that neurodiverse individuals have made to society. “Some of the brightest minds throughout history have been autistic or had ADHD,” he noted. “There is a reason these genes have persisted for thousands of years—they benefit our society on a macro level.”

In a call to action, the leader urged his followers and the broader online community to stand with him in the fight against ignorance and discrimination. He asked people to repost his message, like the post to show that love prevails over hate, and to share their views in the comments. “Who is with us today? Is love stronger than hate?” he asked, rallying support for his cause.

The response has been overwhelming. Thousands of individuals have shown their solidarity, with the hashtags #AutismEmpowerment, #NeuroInclusion, and #Neurodiversity trending across social media platforms. Many have shared their own experiences and stories, further amplifying the charity leader’s message of love, inclusion, and respect.

The charity leader’s advocacy work through Neurodiversity in Business continues to inspire many, showing that even in the face of adversity, the commitment to change and the power of community can bring about a more inclusive and understanding society. This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals and their families, but also of the incredible strength that comes from standing together in the fight for a more accepting world.

Conjoined twins Abby and Brittany Hensel, famous for their unique life journey, have recently addressed a wave of online scrutiny following the revelation of Abby’s marriage to Josh Bowling, a nurse and US Army veteran. The twins, who have spent their lives navigating public interest and misconceptions, sent a clear message to their detractors on social media.

Marriage Revelation Shocks Fans

Earlier this week, many were surprised to discover via public records that Abby Hensel had married Josh Bowling in 2021. This news reignited curiosity about the twins’ lives, especially regarding their relationships and daily dynamics.

Life as Conjoined Twins

Abby and Brittany, from Minnesota, are dicephalus conjoined twins, meaning they share a bloodstream and all organs below the waist while retaining two hearts. Abby controls the right limbs, and Brittany controls the left. They sometimes eat separate meals but often share one due to their single bladder and excretion system, despite having two digestive systems and stomachs.

Future Plans and Family

In a documentary titled Joined For Life, the twins’ mother discussed the possibility of them having children, stating that it “could work because those organs do work for them.” Brittany affirmed, “Yeah, we’re going to be moms,” indicating their desire and intention to start a family in the future.

Public Reaction and Online Backlash

Photos from Abby and Josh’s wedding, shared on social media, led to a barrage of questions and comments about their lives. The twins responded with a TikTok video addressing the noise: “The internet is extra LOUD today.” They followed up with a message directed at their critics: “If you don’t like what I do, but watch everything I’m doing, you’re still a fan.”

Legal Questions and Clarifications

The marriage sparked discussions on platforms like Reddit, with users questioning the legal intricacies. One user asked, “How does this unfold legally? Since they are two people married to one man, who is on the marriage certificate?” Another clarified, “One of the twins will be the legal spouse as far as the state is concerned. So it is theoretically possible that the other twin could someday decide to marry a different person. But given the way they have had to harmonize their entire lives, I imagine they would find it easier to stick to being married to just one person.”

A Message of Resilience

Despite the renewed attention and criticism, Abby and Brittany continue to share their lives openly, inspiring many with their resilience and positivity. Their message to the haters underscores their confidence and commitment to living their lives authentically.

From Childhood Fame to Educators

The Hensel twins first gained widespread attention at age six on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 1996. They went on to star in several documentaries and their own TLC reality show, becoming some of the most well-known conjoined twins in the world. Despite their fame, they pursued higher education and are now elementary school teachers in their hometown.

The anatomy of conjoined twins, Brittany and Abbey.
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Abby and Brittany Hensel’s journey is a testament to their strength and unity. Their recent message to the haters serves as a reminder that, despite public scrutiny, they continue to live their lives with grace and determination, focusing on their personal and professional goals. As they move forward, they remain an inspiration to many, proving that love and resilience can overcome any challenge.

Featured Image Credit: TikTok / @‌abbyandbrittanyhensel / Facebook