The Power of Choice

This is Melissa Stockwell after she won the bronze medal in the paratriathlon at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games on Sept. 11, 2016. This was the moment immediately after the race when she greeted her husband, Brian Tolsma, and her family. 

What made this day special? On April 13, 2004, Melissa lost her leg to an IED during a routine patrol in Iraq, making her the first female soldier to lose a limb in the Iraq War. She was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart, and has gone on to represent her country again through sport. On that morning at Copacabana Beach, Melissa capped off an emotional performance and a Team USA podium sweep exemplifying perseverance and triumph.

If you’re not familiar with Melissa’s story, I’d highly recommend checking out her book linked below, and following her journey as she aims to compete in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. This was by far the coolest video that I’ve ever captured during my career and it was incredible to witness this moment in person.