Published Jul 22, 2024 ??? Last updated Jul 22, 2024 ??? 2 minute read
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Trinity Lowthian will be heading to Paris this summer for the Paralympic Games, representing Canada in wheelchair fencing.Photo by Ashley Fraser /Postmedia
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Trinity Lowthian, a resilient 22-year-old, is proving that determination can overcome the greatest of odds. This summer, she will be heading to Paris for the Paralympic Games, representing Canada in wheelchair fencing. Her journey to this point is a testament to her unwavering spirit and relentless pursuit to get to the Games.
As an able-bodied teenager, Lowthian dreamed of getting to the Olympics, competing in biathlon, water polo and triathlon. However, her world turned upside down in 2018 when she was diagnosed with autoimmune autonomic neuropathy, a severe digestive disease. Two bouts of meningitis, learning to live life in a wheelchair and countless hospital visits — including a two-year stay — may have slowed her down, but Lowthian never gave up on her dreams.
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In May 2022, Lowthian discovered wheelchair fencing at the Ottawa Fencing Club under the guidance of coaches Paul ApSimon and Benjamin Manano. Her natural talent quickly shone through, and that October she competed at the Pan American Championships where she won an impressive four medals. Lowthian’s weapon of choice, the épée, suits her perfectly, reflecting her strength and precision.
Her coaches, especially ApSimon, play dual roles as trainers and logistical supporters or “sherpas,” he joked. “We travelled many miles, carrying over 200 kilos of her medical supplies on our last trip to Europe.” ApSimon went on to say Lowthian “has the mobility, she’s got the temperament and she’s got the guts” that has taken her to the level she is at.
Lowthian’s journey has not been easy. Her condition requires her to receive all nutrition and hydration intravenously, and she undergoes routine intravenous immunoglobulin treatments. Travel for competitions adds another layer of complexity, with the need to transport extensive medical supplies, some with temperature requirements, along with all of her sports equipment.
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Lowthian’s GoFundMe campaign is crucial in covering the costs associated with her training and medical travel expenses. Despite these challenges, she remains optimistic and driven. “My health has thrown me some unbelievable curveballs,” she said. “But I did not give up during those unimaginable years.”
As she prepares for the Paralympic Games, Lowthian’s story serves as an inspiration. Her unwavering determination, positive attitude and incredible achievements show what can be done with dedication and hard work. Ottawa will be cheering for you, Trinity!
The 22-year-old woman is new to the sport but has excelled rapidly since joining the Ottawa Fencing Club in 2022.Photo by Ashley Fraser /Postmedia “I spent my last two years of high school in the hospital, fighting endless complications,” said Lowthian. “Still, I graduated with honours and began my degree in nutrition sciences at the University of Ottawa.”Photo by Ashley Fraser /Postmedia Coach Paul ApSimon worked with Lowthian in her home training space.Photo by Ashley Fraser /Postmedia “She was just ready to launch herself out of the chair,” said coach Paul ApSimon about Lowthian when she joined as a new student in 2022.Photo by Ashley Fraser /Postmedia “I completely lost the mobility to walk and my core strength and everything after having meningitis for the second time in 2023,” Lowthian said.Photo by Ashley Fraser /Postmedia Fencing is a sport that demands sharp mental focus, and one of the unique training techniques used to enhance this is to juggle beanbags.Photo by Ashley Fraser /Postmedia “I’ve been obsessed with the Olympics my whole life. It has been a huge thing; it’s just wild to me!”Photo by Ashley Fraser /Postmedia “My childhood was spent dreaming of the Olympics and standing on podiums for competitive biathlon, triathlon, cross-country and water polo.”Photo by Ashley Fraser /Postmedia “In July 2022 I hadn’t been to a competition, and in two years, I’m here already. It’s just crazy to me.”Photo by Ashley Fraser /Postmedia
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