Strokes of determination - Last Chance Paralympic Qualifier

I need your help to raise $14,000.00 in 2 weeks to attend the last chance Paralympic Qualification Regatta in Lucerne, Switzerland, in hope to secure a spot for Canada at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris.

To offset expenses not covered in the Para-Program budget. Without your help I can't go.

Please share Christa's story:

Christa Akins has always been driven by a passion for sports and a deep commitment to her family and community. Before her life took an unexpected turn she was a founder of a society supporting families raising children with mental health and eating disorders. She loved to run, ski and was an avid cyclist completing the "Ride to Conquer Cancer" from Vancouver, BC to Seattle, WA. On July 5, 2017, she was struck by an SUV while cycling home on a multi-use pathway in Kelowna, BC, leaving her permanently paralyzed and confined to a wheelchair.

"The accident shattered my world, leaving me grappling with despair and uncertainty. Struggling to come to terms with my new reality, I faced a long and arduous journey of rehabilitation and self-discovery. But amidst the pain and the challenges, I found a glimmer of hope when the Canadian Paralympian Search came to Kelowna in November 2019."

"It was there I discovered the world of Para sports. Playing wheelchair basketball and tennis reignited my spirit, but it was the sport of rowing that truly captured my heart."

"The COVID-19 pandemic brought new obstacles, threatening to derail my newfound passion. But rowing became my lifeline, a source of strength and resilience during uncertain times. It was a stark contrast to the endless hours of therapy aimed at walking again—a reminder that life's greatest achievements often come in unexpected forms."

Christa's journey in rowing was marked by triumphs and setbacks alike. From winning the Gold Medal at the National Championships to earning the prestigious Lagoa Rio Trophy for outstanding performance. Christa proved time and again that determination knows no bounds.

And just a week ago, Christa achieved another milestone—earning the nomination to compete at the Final Paralympic Qualification Regatta in Lucerne, Switzerland. It was a moment of triumph tinged with uncertainty, as financial obstacles loomed large on the horizon.

But Christa refuses to let adversity stand in her way. With the unwavering support of her community and the resilience that defines her journey, she is launching a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the expenses of travel, accommodation, and hospitality for herself and her coach.

As she embarks on this new chapter of her journey, Christa does so with gratitude in her heart and determination in her soul. For in the face of adversity, she has discovered the true meaning of resilience—the ability to rise above the challenges, one stroke at a time.

Please contact me directly if you would like to make a direct purchase of the airfare, accommodations and/or hospitality. I would like to take a moment and thank everyone in my life who has supported me to get this far. I will forever treasure this journey and hope to be an example that everything is possible if you just try.

Thank you,

Christa