Double Olympic cycling Champion Kristina Vogel’s life changed in June 2018, after a crash during training which has left her paralysed. She said “this is the toughest challenge ever, but what do you do?
Lie in bed and do nothing each day? Or take it on and achieve what you can?” She has new goals and new things she can look forward to in life.
“I was never a person who asked for help. To sit in a wheelchair instead of walking is so hard in my life, of course, is frustrating, but I have learned its ok to cry and show my emotions”.
As she continues rehabilitation, she has her hands full, training in track cycling, ” I was a cyclist and now its time to realise how other sports can be fun, I would have retired in three or four years, now I’m retired that’s life”
The frustrating moment for Vogel is sitting out, not been able to help the team. she misses the community, the people and just watching on the sideline. “sometimes I’m frustrated of course, but at the end of the day, I’m still happy to be here. My situation could be worse than it is.
After her collision close to 40mph with a Dutch cyclist who was practising his standing starts, Vogel believes Life can be brilliant and nice.
Vogel won 11 world titles, two Olympic gold medals and three European golds in her cycling career.
We all have limitations in different forms. It could be financial, health-wise, work, family, and many other things on the surface that limit what you can do.
We find ourselves doing that, moaning about things that mean nothing. Then you see the joy in Kristina’s face when she can achieve a micro victory, whether it’s moving the football six inches from left to right or getting her feet into her car and being able to shut the door.
But it’s about making the most of the situation you are in, no matter where that situation is on the spectrum. And just not complaining. Not moaning about the small things.
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