I grew up loving sport. In fact, after watching the 1968 Mexico Olympics at the age of seven, I decided I was going to be an Olympic gymnast for Canada. I didn’t have the typical gymnast’s body, but I didn’t know that—until an uncaring woman told me at nine years old that I was too fat for gymnastics.

Thankfully, my incredible mum gently steered me toward swimming. I set my sights on the 1980 Olympics—only to have those dreams dashed when Canada, along with many Western nations, boycotted the Games.

Fast forward to 1998. I was living in Australia, having married an Aussie, building a new life—when I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. I was told I’d never do “that silly sport stuff” again. But I’ve always been a little pig-headed and stubborn. MS wasn’t who I was—it was just one part of me. And no one was going to tell me what I could or couldn’t do.

At 44, I discovered Para sport. After attending a talent search day, I was encouraged to try rowing. I did—and made the national team! I thought the dream was finally coming true. But our crew missed qualifying for the Games by just 0.8 of a second.

So, I pivoted. I switched to Para cycling, was classified as a T2 trike rider, and began the most amazing 14-year journey. I represented Australia at three Paralympic Games, became a 9-time World Champion, and—at the age of 51—won my first Paralympic gold medal. I went on to win two more golds in Rio, and a silver in Tokyo at 60.

At 63, after retiring from elite sport, I wasn’t sure what was next. That’s when Nadine from @designbayjewellery connected with me to create a custom ring that would reflect my journey. I felt honoured—and excited to collaborate with her on a meaningful design that tells my story. I asked that it include the Agitos (the Paralympic symbol), my birthstone, and my personal motto: It’s Never Too Late, which is now engraved inside the band.

Every time I look at this ring, I’m reminded that I’ve truly lived that motto. After all—it only took me 42 years, two countries, and three sports to achieve my dream. I hope it inspires others to believe that age or circumstance should never define us.
Because It’s Never Too Late.