Felicia Grimmenhag of Sweden doesn’t let anything get in her way – even a life-changing injury.
After surviving a serious car accident, Felicia had to adjust to getting around in a wheelchair. But it didn’t stop her from chasing her dream as a champion horseback rider and Paralympic hopeful.
Felicia was 17 when she was hit by a car while riding her moped. Despite being legally deceased for 15 minutes, she miraculously pulled through, though not without scars. When she woke up three days later, she discovered both of her legs had been amputated.
While this new reality would be a tough pill for anyone to swallow, Felicia focused all her energy on getting back on the horse – literally! She’d ridden as a little girl and decided in the hospital to try again. She wasn’t sure if she’d be able to, but about 10 weeks after the accident, she was riding once again!
“The horses have meant a lot to me, both mentally and also physically,” she told Great Big Story. “When I sit on the horse, I don’t feel like the disabled Felicia, I feel like the equestrian Felicia.”
Felicia has since taken part in competitions around the world, proving she doesn’t need legs to win. This year, the 25-year-old won silver at the Swedish Championships, and next year, she hopes to compete at the Tokyo Paralympics!
“What I have learned from all this is that you should dare to challenge yourself, and remember that it’s only you who sets your own limits,” she said.
Anyone looking for inspiration need look no further than this incredible woman! She’s living proof that when you want something, all you need is the desire and drive to achieve it.
Hear more of Felicia’s story in the video below, and share an an example of what can happen when you believe in yourself!
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