Karni Liddell
Karni Liddell is a force of nature. She has an enthusiasm for life that is contagious and an advocacy approach that will get you thinking about important topics in the world of disability. At 12 months of age Karni was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, her parents were told that she would never be able to walk and that she would not live past her teens.
Defying the odds Karni competed at two Paralympic Games, 1996 and 2000, winning bronze in womens 50 m freestyle in Atlanta games, and bronze in womens 4 x 50m relay at the Sydney Games.
But we actually didn’t dive into her experience as an elite athlete in this conversation. Instead we talked about life as a single parent, the judgement that she combats being a single parent in a wheelchair, and her drive to educate others about the importance of inclusion.
We also dove into the confronting, but important topic of violence towards people with disabilities. The research in this field is limited but the rates are alarming.
Karni’s energy, passion and focus are felt in this conversation and it’s one that all of us need to be joining in more.
Get ready to laugh and even shed a tear as you hear from the powerhouse that is Karni Liddell.
Connect with Karni:
Instagram: @karniliddell
Twitter: @karniliddell
