Pamela Fernandes
MA, US
Athlete who overcame diabetes and blindness to become a World Champion Paralympian
For Pamela Fernandes, winning is more than a goal; it's a way of life. Her hard work has paid off with national cycling titles for eight consecutive years, three Paralymic and one world championship medal, and three medals, including two gold at the European championships in cycling. At the 2000 Sydney Paralympics, nothing - not even a broken foot - could stop Fernandes. She and her cycling partner Al Whaley won the gold medal in the 1-kilometer time trial, setting a World record and a Paralympic record. They also won a silver medal in the tandem match sprints. Fernandes was the first woman Paralympian to receive the prestigious U.S. Olympic Spirit Award given by the U.S. Olympic Committee to U.S. athletes who best exemplify the spirit of the Olympics through the courage and determination they demonstrate. Fernandes has had diabetes since she was four years old, and became legally blind at the age of 21. After numerous surgeries, five years of dialysis, and an uncertain future, she received a new kidney in 1987 and her life began to change. Today she's an outstanding athlete and professional motivational speaker, among her many activities.
For Pamela Fernandes, winning is more than a goal; it's a way of life. Her hard work has paid off with national cycling titles for eight consecutive years, three Paralymic and one world championship medal, and three medals, including two gold at the European championships in cycling. At the 2000 Sydney Paralympics, nothing - not even a broken foot - could stop Fernandes. She and her cycling partner Al Whaley won the gold medal in the 1-kilometer time trial, setting a World record and a Paralympic record. They also won a silver medal in the tandem match sprints. Fernandes was the first woman Paralympian to receive the prestigious U.S. Olympic Spirit Award given by the U.S. Olympic Committee to U.S. athletes who best exemplify the spirit of the Olympics through the courage and determination they demonstrate. Fernandes has had diabetes since she was four years old, and became legally blind at the age of 21. After numerous surgeries, five years of dialysis, and an uncertain future, she received a new kidney in 1987 and her life began to change. Today she's an outstanding athlete and professional motivational speaker, among her many activities.
2010