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The 2024 Paris Olympics brought us unforgettable moments of triumph, resilience, and teamwork. Among the standout athletes are those who not only represented Team USA but also proudly carried the banner of #DisabilityPride. As we shine a spotlight on these incredible individuals, we recognize their journeys, the barriers they’ve overcome, and the example they set for others. From breaking records to redefining what’s possible, these athletes embody the spirit of determination and inclusivity. Let’s dive into their stories and celebrate their remarkable achievements at this year’s Games!
Stephen Nedoroscik- Men's Gymnastics
Also known as “pommel horse guy,” Stephen Nedoroscik helped the US men’s gymnastics team end a 16-year team medal drought and win bronze in the finals. Nedoroscik has two conditions: strabismus, or misalignment of the eyes, and coloboma, a loss of tissue in a part of the eye.
Learn more:
CNN- These vision-impaired Olympic stars rely on a ‘sixth sense’ when they compete
Healthline- ‘Pommel Horse Guy’ Stephen Nedoroscik Wears Glasses Due to 2 Eye Conditions
Today- What to know about Stephen Nedoroscik's eyesight: Gymnast reveals eye conditions
Simone Biles- Women's Gymnastics
Simone Biles, often known as the GOAT of gymnastics, has ADHD and anxiety. After her notorious case of the “twisties” at the 2021 Olympic games, Biles has been an outspoken advocate for mental health. At this year’s Olympics, she cinched 3 gold medals and 1 silver.
Learn more:
ADDitude- “Having ADHD and Taking Medicine for It is Nothing to Be Ashamed Of”
Forbes- Redefine Success: What Simone Biles is Teaching Us About Inclusive Leadership
Noah Lyles- Track and Field Sprinter
Last year, Noah Lyles became the first man since Usain Bolt to win a 100m and 200m world double, before completing a golden treble in the 4x100m relay. This year, Lyles won a gold medal in the men’s 100m. Shortly after his win, he posted on X (formerly Twitter), ““I have Asthma, allergies, dyslexia, ADD, anxiety, and Depression. But I will tell you that what you have does not define what you can become. Why Not You!”
Learn more:
NBC Boston- Noah Lyles' childhood struggles with asthma inspire kids with the condition
Forbes- After 100m gold Noah Lyles posts about asthma, ADD, anxiety, depression
Anna Cockrell- Track and Field Hurdle
Starting as an NCAA champion at USC, Anna Cockrell was diagnosed with depression early in her track career. At the Paris games, Cockrell finished second in the 400m hurdles. She has been open about her depression, addressing it in her USC commencement speech in 2019.
Learn more:
WCNC Charlotte- Anna Cockrell is ready to race
LA Times- Ex-USC star Anna Cockrell overcomes mental hurdles to take silver in, yes, Olympic hurdles
Katie Ledecky- Women's Swimming
As the most dominant female swimmer of her generation, Katie Ledecky tied the record for most gold medals won by a female Olympian at the 2024 games. Ledecky also recently revealed her struggles with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), a condition that affects the nervous system.
Learn more:
Today- Katie Ledecky opens up about POTS diagnosis and how she manages it when competing
NECN-Katie Ledecky is shining a spotlight on POTS
E! Online- Why Katie Ledecky Initially Kept Her POTS Diagnosis Private
Aaron Small- Sprint Kayaker
Aaron Small made history at this years’ Games as the first American with hearing loss to complete in the team sprint kayaking events. He uses Phonak Audéo Lumity Life hearing aids, which are waterproof and rechargeable. They help him better understand others when he's training and competing.
Learn more:
Today- Hard-of-hearing Olympian Aaron Small went from being bullied to going for gold in Paris
King5- Seattle Olympian Aaron Small hopes to raise awareness for athletes with hearing aids
Sunisa Lee- Women's Gymnastics
In 2023, Sunisa Lee was diagnosed with two rare and incurable kidney diseases. After her kidney diseases forced her to press pause, Suni had to take measures to work around her conditions. At this years’ Olympics, Lee helped the US team win gold and earned a bronze medal in the individual-all around competition. That’s what you call a comeback!
Learn more:
Forbes- Suni Lee overcomes 2 kidney disease diagnoses to triumph at Paris Olympics
New York Times- Stalkers, Disease and Doubt: A Gymnast’s Hard Road Back to the Games
