Despite Going Blind at 14, Paralympic Swimmer and World Record Holder Creates a Wave of Change
From a 13-year-old swimmer to a world record holder American Paralympic swimmer, Anastasia Pagonis came a long way. But unfortunately, Pagonis lost her vision at the age of 14 caused by an autoimmune retinopathy disorder. This disorder comprises a spectrum of retinal degenerative disorders that can also be caused by heredity. Eventually, with the help of her dog Radar, given to her by Guide Dog Foundation she was able to reboot her training program.
The Paralympian had a hard time grappling with the change in the initial days. However, with the support and love she received from her loved ones, she decided to hop back into the pool. From there, she made her debut in para-swimming in 2020 in Melbourne. It was only a matter of time before an exciting brand noticed her potential. And that is exactly what happened when e.l.f teamed up with the Paralympic star.
Regardless of vision disorder, Pagonis drops a video of ‘Show yours.e.l.f’
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
E.l.f. is a makeup and skincare cosmetic brand that has partnered with the young athlete her for her love of makeup. The 19-year-old Tokyo Paralympic Gold Medalist recently shared her video in collaboration with ‘e.l.f.’, where she explains how she learned to do everything differently after being diagnosed with a vision impairment. She says “When I lost my vision, I learned how to do literally everything differently (including her makeup). I was not gonna let my disabilities stop me from doing the thing that I love.”
Trending
“Heart Is Breaking”: Gymnastics World Saddened by Yet Another Athlete Falling Prey to ACL Injury
May 12, 2024 06:54 AM EDT
Patrick Mahomes’ NFL Commitment Frustrates Randi Mahomes as Mom Admits Lack of Family Time With Chiefs QB
May 14, 2024 03:35 AM EDT
‘Cannot Hold Up’: Tiger Woods Disappoints PGA Championship Fans Despite Positive Golf Cart Move
May 13, 2024 11:30 AM EDT
Italian Open: Aryna Sabalenka’s Crown Fails to Move Coco Gauff as She Comes Clean on Her Long Term Goals
May 14, 2024 05:27 AM EDT
Papa Kelce Officially Confirms $1.95 Trillion Worth Corp’s Interest in Jason & Travis Kelce’s ‘New Heights’ Podcast
May 13, 2024 06:53 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest Olympics stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
Going blind at 14 didn’t stop Paralympic swimmer (and world record holder!) #AnastasiaPagonis from doing what she loves. ❤️ #elfcosmetics #showyourself #ad https://t.co/wTKtAbpBDu pic.twitter.com/hGSN16eAtL
— People (@people) June 15, 2023
Her makeup tutorial was recently shared on Twitter by People, who wrote, “Going blind at 14 didn’t stop Paralympic swimmer (and world record holder!) #AnastasiaPagonis from doing what she loves. #elfcosmetics #showyourself #adpeoplem. ag”.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Despite going blind Pagonis accomplished everything that she dreamt of
“People for some reason think that I’m not the one doing my own makeup, or why would I wear makeup if I’m blind”, says Pagonis in her video. In the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Pagonis received a gold and a bronze medal; in Madeira 2022 she achieved three gold medals. Certainly, she can take on anything she wants, including her chores and makeup.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Some people assumed she faked putting on her own makeup, and in reply, Pagonis simply shared her tutorial. The young Paralympian is an inspiration in every way.
Watch This Story: LSU Gymnast Olivia Dunne Stuns Millions of Fans With Breathtaking Swimming Pictures During Adventure-Filled Holiday
Edited by:
Anupama Ghosh