From Red Deer to the Paralympic Games, Tammy Cunnington embodies grit and resilience. Paralyzed at six, she defied limits to compete at the 2016 Rio Paralympics and now champions accessibility, diversity, and inclusion.

As a speaker, advocate, and author, Tammy inspires audiences to rise above obstacles and find strength in unexpected places.

A survivor of a life-altering plane crash at the age of six, Tammy’s journey to Paralympic success has been marked by grit, perseverance, and a relentless spirit. After the accident, she turned her focus to wheelchair basketball, winning a gold medal at the Gold Cup Championships, and later transitioned to para-swimming. Tammy represented Canada at the 2016 Rio Paralympics and the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, achieving remarkable results, including multiple medals at the Para Pan American Games, the Pan Pacific Championships, and Canadian Nationals. She proved that no obstacle is too great to overcome.

Now retired from elite competition, Tammy is dedicated to inspiring others through her speaking engagements and coaching. As an ambassador for Fast and Female and the Rick Hansen Foundation, she helps others embrace their strength and take on challenges with confidence. Her motto, “Passion = Victory,” drives her to continue pursuing new goals, including traveling, coaching, and even bungee jumping. Tammy’s story is one of transformation, and she continues to inspire individuals worldwide to face their own battles with resilience and determination.