If you never watched the Paralympics before they began broadcasting in primetime this year, you may not have ever had the opportunity to see Tatyana McFadden compete — but she’s one athlete who should definitely be on your radar. The 32-year-old wheelchair racer has spent years racking up accolades, including 17 Paralympic medals — and despite the fact that the Tokyo Paralympics were postponed for a year, she’s ready to shine once again.
Tatyana is also a powerful advocate for the disability community. “There’s a big misconception that disabled people are seen as medical conditions,” Tatyana told POPSUGAR in a previous interview. “They aren’t seen as elite athletes, and so that’s a stereotype that [Paralympic athletes] are trying to break right now.” Tatyana is certainly no stranger to breaking the mold. Here are five things you should know about the six-time Paralympian and seven-time gold medalist.