Newcastle Para athlete Melisca Everson aims for the Paralympics
Melisca Everson a determined para swimmer and Newcastle sportswoman, is desperately trying to qualify for the 2028 Paralympics.
Under the Elite Athlete Development Programme (EADP) in Durban, she continues to shatter barriers despite surmounting innumerable challenges since birth.
Born with a cataract, at six months old, Melisca underwent a replacement of a lens and heart surgery.
She was then diagnosed with cerebral palsy in her lower body and also battled meningitis.
Her parents made one very important decision early on: “We decided to bring her up as a normal child, to do everything and not bubble-wrap her.
The best decision we ever made,” her mother, Alice Everson, told the Advertiser.
Melisca has been swimming since Grade 1 and is already making waves in South African para-sports.
She set a new SA record in the discus and the 50m butterfly competition last year.
This year, she is determined to break more records when she competes in the SASAPD Championships from March 28 to April 1 and in the SA Nationals from April 9 to 13, both in Port Elizabeth.
However, financial difficulties are currently preventing her from attending these important events.
“Unfortunately, our circumstances changed over the past three years, which impacted our financial situation. From having our three baby grandchildren to retrenchments, it has not been easy,” said Alice.
The family is appealing for assistance with Melisca’s travel, accommodation, entry fees and kit charges.
Apart from her sporting dreams, Melisca is passionate about motivating others.
She plans to study biokinetics or physiotherapy next year and hopes to launch a campaign encouraging children with disabilities to embrace their talents and not hide them.
“A disability should not make you hide from this world—you can also shine,” Melisca declared.
All individuals willing to help along Melisca’s path can contact Alice at 084 602 6688 or visit her her Back-a-Buddy Account: Melisca Everson Swimming competitions
“The more they support her, the closer she will be to accomplishing her wishes. We are very proud parents!” Alice concluded.
The news provided to you in this link has been investigated and compiled by the editorial staff of the Newcastle Advertiser, a sold newspaper distributed in the Newcastle area. Please follow us on Youtube and feel free to like, comment, and subscribe. For more local news, visit our webpage, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and request an add on our WhatsApp (082 874 5550).
