The extraordinary determination to overcome adversity never ceases to amaze us when we see people with disabilities taking part in the Paralympics. Indeed, some of them might not have contemplated sport until they were injured, yet they have since exceeded goals they set themselves to prove their ability. Demonstrations of fencing and weightlifting by athletes with disabilities will set the scene for a discussion about what extra it takes to achieve when the body is not fully functional. Where is the balance between talent and technology? There is no doubt that new materials and technological design assist athletes in speed and mobility. Experts will comment on a display of prosthetic limbs, wheelchairs and equipment – old and new – used by people with disabilities.

This event is FREE.

Bookings are limited to two per person. Any additional bookings will be cancelled.

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Speakers:

Brett Smith, Senior Lecturer in disability, health and wellbeing, Loughborough University

Anne Luttman-Johnson, paralysed after a road accident

Anthony Peddle, Powerlifting Paralympic athlete

Facilitator:

Martin McElhatton, Chief Executive, WheelPower

Materials scientist Professor Mark Miodownik, biomedical engineer Professor Gordon Blunn (University College London) and Serena Stubbs (Clinical Lead at the Ability Clinic, London) will comment on a display of prosthetic limbs, wheelchairs and equipment used by people with disabilities. Equipment supplied by Össur, Ability Technology Group, Ottobock and Imperial College London in collaboration with the Royal College of Art.

Image: Former Marine Corps Sgt. Tim Connor, U.S. Navy photo by Lisa Rama/Released.