Singaporean swimmer Toh Wei Soong is gearing up for his second Paralympic Games,
determined to medal at the 2024 Paris Summer Paralympic Games. Toh, a freestyle and
butterfly swimmer, was diagnosed with transverse myelitis at a young age, which affected
his lower nervous system and restricted the use of his legs.
Despite the challenges, Toh discovered his passion for swimming at 13 and has since
become one of Singapore’s top para–athletes. He has won several medals, including a
bronze at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and two golds in the 2018 Asian Para Games.
Toh’s journey to the Paralympics has not been without its challenges. He spent up to 24
hours a week in rigorous training, often missing social outings and holidays. He also faced
disappointment when he failed to qualify for the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de
Janeiro.However, Toh credits these experiences with teaching him how to
overcomeadversity and grow as a person and athlete. He also highlights the disparity in
media coverage and societal recognition between disabled athletes and their able-bodied
peers.
Toh hopes that his success in Paris will be a stepping stone to his long-term dream of living
life fully and inspiring others. “I want to be living intensely, passionately, and getting as
much out of life,” he said. “There are always ways to get it done. And the moment you stop
thinking that’s possible is when it becomes impossible.”
