Woman Transforms Abandoned Disabled Child into World-Class Athlete Through Adoption

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Recall that invincible feeling during a school performance, knowing your mom’s unwavering support turned you into a superstar. Oksana Masters exemplifies the enchantment of a mother’s love, proving that the seemingly impossible becomes achievable with such help.

Oksana Masters, a Paralympic champion, stands as an inspiration to thousands globally. Yet, her journey began with significant challenges.

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Born in Ukraine in 1989, just three years after the Chornobyl Nuclear Disaster, Oksana faced severe radiation effects leading to congenital disabilities—tibial hemimelia, webbed fingers with no thumbs, and six toes on each foot. Abandoned by her birth parents, she found herself alone in an orphanage, grappling with these challenges.

On the other side of the world, Gay Masters, a woman aspiring to be a mother, discovered Oksana’s photo in a Courier journal. Despite intending to adopt an infant, Gay saw a spark in Oksana’s eyes and knew she had found her daughter. Sometimes, a mother’s love transcends biological ties.

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The adoption process proved arduous. A speech pathologist at the University of Louisville advised against it, presenting challenges to Gay. However, determined to bring Oksana home, she pressed on. Oksana’s orphanage, upon learning of Gay’s intentions, showed her a picture of her soon-to-be mother, igniting hope in the child for a safe home and loving parent.

After a thorough 24-month process, Gay finally brought Oksana home. The moment they met, the little girl recognized her mother. Gay’s unwavering love began to nurture Oksana, who, despite losing both legs at ages nine and 14, blossomed under her care.

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Recognizing Oksana’s affinity for sports, Gay encouraged her to pursue athletics. Oksana, naturally inclined to sports, won numerous gold medals in rowing, cross-country skiing, and cycling. Oksana became an Olympic champion from a once-abandoned girl, clinching two gold medals at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.

Despite their differences, including Gay’s love for books and Oksana’s love for climbing trees, their bond strengthened through love. Gay’s support helped Oksana overcome past physical, mental, and sexual abuse suffered in the orphanage.

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Now a grown woman, Oksana aims to help others, sharing her story in the book “The Hard Parts: A Story of Courage and Triumph.” She hopes to use the power of sports to heal and inspire others who faced similar challenges in orphanages.

Oksana’s story is a testament to the transformative power of love. Gay’s unwavering support turned an abandoned child into a champion not only in sports but also in life. Oksana, now a tireless advocate, dreams of bringing positive change to the lives of children like her.

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The Masters family’s story highlights the extraordinary feats love can achieve. Commenters express admiration for Oksana and her remarkable mother, emphasizing the profound impact their story has on others.”