
Paralympian Curtis McGrath on the explosion that left him a double leg amputee
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About the episode
This week on Stories of Us, Sarah Grynberg is joined by Curtis McGrath OAM, the co-Captain of the 2024 Paris Paralympic Australian team. Hailing from Wyalkatchem in the Western Australian Wheatbelt, Curtis's remarkable journey unfolds as he shares his experiences as a combat engineer with the 6th Engineer Support Regiment in the Australian army. In 2012, Curtis faced a life-altering moment when he was severely injured by an Improvised Explosive Device during operations in Afghanistan. The poignant narrative delves into the transformative instant when Curtis became a double leg amputee, exploring the immediate physical and mental challenges that ensued. Embarking on a path of resilience and determination, Curtis embraced canoeing and swimming as integral components of his rehabilitation. His decision to undertake a 1,000 km paddle from Sydney to Queensland for charity marked the inception of a new chapter. This remarkable journey led Curtis to become a paracanoeist, competing on the international stage, including the prestigious Paralympic games. Tune in as Curtis McGrath shares his inspiring story of overcoming adversity and triumphing against the odds. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.