Everyone loves comeback stories, and at the upcoming Paralympics in Paris, a talented swimmer has her sights set on a gold medal after surviving a horrific shark attack.

US swimmer Alexander Truwit lost her lower leg in the incident just one year ago. Despite the trauma, the 24-year-old qualified to represent her country in the 100 m freestyle, 400 m freestyle and 100 m backstroke events.

The horrific attack occurred on May 24, 2023. Ali had just graduated from Yale University and was celebrating with friends on vacation. She was snorkeling in the sea. Suddenly a shark attacked and ripped off her lower leg bone. Despite the danger, she managed to swim 70 meters to safety.

After she was taken to the hospital and flown back to the USA, doctors in New York had to amputate her leg below the knee.

Truwit had to undergo two surgeries to fight infection before her leg was amputated on her 23rd birthday. Rather than letting the incident worry her, she focused on preparing for Paralympic qualification, completing strength exercises and prosthetic training.

She said: “I didn’t want to lose any part of my body or my love for water.”

Her determination paid off. At the Paralympic Trials in Minneapolis, she secured first place in the 100m backstroke, 100m freestyle and 400m freestyle.

I love comeback stories: Alexander Truwit

Looking back on her journey, Truwit said, “I love comeback stories. I definitely relied on other people’s comeback stories to hold on to what seemed like a bold and unrealistic hope – to fight a shark, survive, lose a body part and make it to the Paralympics within a year.”

She added: “Hearing my name on this team was a reminder to me that I am stronger than I think. That we are all stronger than we think.”

The 2024 Paralympics in Paris will take place from August 28 to September 9, 2024.