Olympians are usually associated with great health, superior talent in their sport and an amazing physical ability. The performances the public sees at the Olympic Games don’t come without a lot of practice. For one Brazilian Olympian, a training accident led to a spinal cord injury.
The freestyle skier was injured on Jan. 27, 2014 when she hit a tree while she was recreational skiing in Utah. She initially received care at the University of Utah hospital, but is now receiving care for her spinal cord injury at a Florida hospital.
The Olympic freestyle skier, who has previously competed in Olympic gymnastics events, didn’t sever her spinal cord, but she is unable to move her arms or legs.
Her condition is improving. While she remains in intensive care, doctors say she is starting to breathe without machines. They are confident that she will soon be downgraded from critical condition to serious condition.
The Olympian is said to be in good spirits. Doctors say that her health and fitness level will help her recovery.
This woman’s skiing accident has already greatly impacted her life, since she wasn’t able to compete in the Olympics she worked hard to compete in. Almost everyone who suffers a spinal cord injury faces some long-term life changes. These changes can negatively impact that person’s financial future and health.
If you have suffered a spinal cord injury that was caused by someone’s negligence, you might have the right to seek compensation for your injury, as well as the lasting effects of that injury. Seeking the advice of a Florida personal injury attorney might help you determine if you should pursue claims for damages.
Source: Ocala.com, “Fla. center treating paralyzed Olympic skier” No author given, Feb. 07, 2014