“Paraplegia is the symptom of paralysis that mainly affects your legs (though it can sometimes affect your lower body and some of your arm abilities, too). This usually happens because of injuries to your nervous system, especially your spinal cord, but it can also happen with various medical conditions and diseases.” [1]
“People with paraplegia will have mobility problems and may require the use of a wheelchair. However, long-term treatment options exist to help reduce symptoms and complications in people with paraplegia.” [2]
How is it different from other forms of paralysis?
“Different forms of paralysis are named for the areas of the body and how much of the body they impact. Paraplegia only impacts the lower half of the body. Other forms of paralysis include:
- Monoplegia. This type impacts only one limb.
- Paraparesis. This type partially impacts both legs.
- Diplegia. This type impacts either both arms or both legs.
- Hemiplegia. This type impacts one side of the body. For example, your left arm and left leg.
- Quadriplegia. This type impacts both arms and both legs. Quadriplegia is sometimes referred to as tetraplegia.”
Famous People Who Had or Have Paraplegia
Paralysis changes a person’s life forever. However, that doesn’t have to mean your life is over or that it can’t be good. In fact, many people become an inspiration to others by continuing to thrive despite paralysis. Today, we are going to look at five stories that we find incredibly inspiring.
Paralysis does not discriminate. Even a famous person can become paralyzed. Here are some famous paralytics who inspire us, not only because of the things they did before paralysis but also for how they continued to make a difference in others’ lives even after their illness or injury.
“Success stories are not just for actors, scientists, and authors. Spinal cord injury rehabilitation continues to make tremendous advancements in helping paralyzed individuals regain independence after injuries or illnesses. You can continue to thrive despite paralysis. But it is crucial to maintain the right attitude toward the challenges ahead.” [4]
Resources
[1] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/23984-paraplegia
[2] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-is-paraplegia
[3] https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-illness/paraplegia#different-from-other-forms
[4] https://www.iamable.org/5-famous-people-inspire-despite-their-paralysis/
[5] https://www.ranker.com/list/famous-people-with-paraplegia/celebrity-lists