Casey's Road to Gold
My name is Casey Fitzgerald and i am 18 years old.
I was diagnosed with Spastic Diplegia Cerebral Palsy when I was just two years of age. This type of cerebral palsy affects my lower limbs and prohibits me from walking and standing.
I've spent most my life confined to a wheelchair... but I've never let this stop me from reaching my highest potential.
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I discovered my love of para powerlifting late in 2021 after having a trial run, I needed something for me as my mental health was suffering from not wanting to mix with my peers.
I felt I held them back when they were running around, so I felt it was easier to stay inside.
My hobbies are obviously para powerlifting, nail art, arts and crafts, shopping and playing with my best friends, Pio my chocolate labrador and my tabby cat Simba.
Pio, my chocolate labrador, is a fully trained companion from Dogs for the Disabled in Cork. He helps me in so many ways from giving me independence to putting a smile on my face. Pio is my second best friend that Dogs for the Disabled have connected me to. His predecessor, Harrison was my first assistance dog and best friend who helped me for 7 years before passing away. Dogs for the Disabled has changed my life, in the best way possible.
I've been so lucky throughout my journey that I've had my very own support club within my own family. Family is very important to me as I wouldn't be who I am without them and everything they do for me. My mother and father are by my side through each and every step of the way. They ensure I can reach my dreams through all of the simple things they do for me everyday.
I also have 2 sisters and 2 brothers who cheer on my every achievement. Even through everything, we argue and make up like every other siblings, they add to my version normality. I am an aunt to 6 young children, 2 nieces and 4 nephews. I hope they can see through my achievements that no dream is out of reach, no matter how hopeless it seems. I have many aunts, uncles and cousins who that are also part of my support club, I appreciate each and every person in my family who encourages me on the daily. All of these people add to the craziness of my life but I wouldn't change a thing about any of it.
My family
My coach and gym
Bryan Foy is my personal Trainer and coach since July 2022. He owns Club Active Gym in Church St Kells Co. Meath which is a magnificent fitness centre with weights, classes and personal Trainers to look after everyone’s needs.
He is dedicated to my achievements, not only training but also mentally and nutritionally. He asks me how I feel every training and how my body felt after the previous session. It is very important to have somebody as passionate about the sport as I am training you.
I hope I make him so proud of me as I am of my own achievements. We want to put parapowerlifting on the map and teamwork makes the dream work!
All progress takes place outside the comfort zone