Maisie Summers-Newton has once again showcased her incredible talent at the Paralympic Games in Paris, defending both of her gold medals from Tokyo. The Northampton swimmer delivered outstanding performances in the Women’s 100m SB6 breaststroke and the Women’s SM6 200m individual medley. In the breaststroke, she achieved a time of 1:31.30, while in the individual medley, she clocked in at 2:56.90, securing her position as a top contender. This victory makes her the fifth British champion out of the last six winners in this event.

A Journey of Inspiration

Reflecting on her success, Maisie recalls watching Ellie Simmonds break the world record in 2012. She never imagined she would achieve such heights herself. “When I was watching Ellie in London 2012, never ever would I have thought I would come away with one Paralympic medal, let alone four,” Maisie shared. Her journey from an inspired young swimmer to a Paralympic champion exemplifies dedication and perseverance.

Family Support and New Experiences

Maisie’s achievements are even more meaningful considering the challenges posed by the Covid-19 restrictions during the Tokyo Games. This time, she experienced the full support of the crowd, which added to her triumph. “My mum is my absolute rock,” Maisie said, highlighting the crucial role her family has played. Her grandad, in particular, has been her “swimming taxi,” attending every competition.

Balancing Swimming with Teaching

In addition to her athletic accomplishments, Maisie has recently graduated from the University of Northampton as a qualified teacher. She is eager to use her experiences from the Paralympics to inspire her future students. Despite her new qualification, Maisie plans to continue focusing on swimming and is open to exploring teaching opportunities in the future.

Looking Ahead to LA 2028

As Maisie prepares for future challenges, including the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, she remains optimistic. Training alongside fellow swimmers like Bruce Dee and the Humphrey twins has been both inspiring and motivating for her. “Their friendship and competitive spirit have been invaluable,” she noted.

Maisie Summers-Newton’s success at the Paris Paralympics and her journey from a young swimmer inspired by Ellie Simmonds to a Paralympic champion is a testament to her hard work and resilience. With her eyes set on future achievements both in and out of the pool, Maisie’s story continues to inspire.

The Mountain Within Me is a compelling documentary that follows Ed Jackson’s remarkable journey from paraplegia to climbing the Himalayas. Directed by Polly Steele, the film explores Jackson’s transformation from a former professional rugby player, who suffered severe spinal injuries, to an inspiring mountaineer.

Initially diagnosed as quadriplegic, Jackson defied expectations by regaining mobility and eventually scaling mountains. The documentary interweaves interviews with Jackson, his wife Lois, and their friends, providing a personal touch to the narrative. Stunning drone footage highlights the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas, enhancing the film’s visual appeal.

The central focus is Jackson’s attempt to climb a Himalayan peak alongside Ben Halms, a paratrooper with similar injuries. This adventure underscores the unpredictable nature of such challenges and the determination required to face them. Despite the film’s uplifting message, it honestly portrays the mental struggles of losing physical abilities and explores how this impacts individuals, particularly those with hyper-masculine identities.

Jackson and Lois also start a charitable foundation aimed at helping others with physical and mental challenges engage with nature and build community. However, some viewers might find the film’s adventurous elements a bit clichéd. Moreover, it lacks a broader perspective on disabilities beyond extreme sports.

The Mountain Within Me opens in UK cinemas on August 23. It offers an inspiring look at overcoming obstacles and the quest for self-discovery through extreme climbing.

In the heart of Texas, a father’s love for his daughter has transformed the landscape of inclusivity and play. Gordon Hartman, a successful homebuilder, traded his construction empire for a dream—a dream sparked by his daughter, Morgan. Born with physical and cognitive disabilities, Morgan inspired her father to create a haven where everyone, regardless of ability, could experience the joy of a theme park.

The Genesis of a Dream

The story begins in 2006, during a family vacation. While enjoying a day at the hotel pool, Gordon witnessed a moment that changed his life forever. Morgan, eager to join in with other children, was shunned simply because she couldn’t communicate verbally. The look of confusion and hurt on her face was a stark reminder of the barriers she faced. Determined to find a place where Morgan could be included, Gordon’s search yielded no results. There were no theme parks that offered the inclusivity his daughter needed.

Building a Wonderland

Unwilling to accept this reality, Gordon made a bold decision. He sold his lucrative homebuilding business and set out to build a theme park where “everyone could do everything.” In 2007, he assembled a team of doctors, therapists, and families to help design the park, ensuring it would meet the needs of children with various disabilities.

Three years later, Morgan’s Wonderland opened its gates in San Antonio. The 25-acre park was a testament to Gordon’s vision and dedication. It featured a fully accessible Ferris wheel, an adventure playground, a miniature train, and a carousel designed for wheelchair users. The journey to creating this inclusive wonderland was not without its challenges, but Gordon’s determination never wavered.

A Carousel of Courage

One of the park’s most touching stories is Morgan’s relationship with the carousel. Initially, she was terrified of the ride, not understanding why it moved or why the animals went up and down. Her father recounts the slow process of her overcoming this fear: “First she would stand near it, then she’d get on an animal but we wouldn’t start it. It was a slow process but now she loves going on it.” Morgan’s eventual joy in riding the carousel symbolizes the triumphs achieved through patience and perseverance. “Overcoming something she was scared of meant a lot to her. Little things achieved in play can make a big difference,” Gordon shared.

Expanding the Dream

In 2017, the dream expanded with the opening of Morgan’s Inspiration Island, the world’s first ultra-accessible splash park. This $17 million addition features 25 attractions, including five interactive splash pads designed with accessibility in mind. The waterpark is not just a place for fun but a symbol of inclusivity and innovation.

Gordon describes the parks as “special places where anyone can have fun, but they were created with individuals with special needs in mind.” The unique environment ensures that every visitor, regardless of ability, can enjoy the park to the fullest.

A Legacy of Inclusion

Morgan’s Wonderland and Morgan’s Inspiration Island have welcomed over four million visitors from every state in the U.S. and more than 120 countries. Brent Fields, CEO of the Morgan’s Wonderland umbrella organization, notes that the park has “helped us spark that spirit of inclusion.”

Gordon Hartman’s dedication to creating a place where his daughter and others like her can experience the simple joys of childhood is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have. His vision has not only created a haven for those with disabilities but also fostered a culture of understanding and inclusion.

In the heart of San Antonio, a wonderland exists, born from a father’s love and unwavering commitment to inclusivity. Morgan’s Wonderland stands as a beacon of hope, a place where dreams are realised, and every child can feel the magic of belonging.