'You got this' – Hunter Woodhall shares the inspiring advice that guided his extraordinary path

Hunter Woodhall has shared a powerful childhood memory, reflecting on his mother's advice that shaped his remarkable journey.

Paralympic gold-medalist Hunter Woodhall has for long been an inspiration to many, both on and off the track.

As a double amputee and world-class sprinter, Woodhall has built a life that transcends boundaries, earning a place in the hearts of fans across the globe.

Recently, the American athlete shared a deeply personal childhood memory, revealing the pivotal role his mother’s wisdom played in shaping his mindset.

Hunter Woodhall, born with fibular hemimelia—a congenital condition where his fibula bones were absent—underwent amputation at just 11 months old.

Despite the challenges, he has defied the odds to become one of the most successful Paralympians in history.

Reflecting on his journey, Woodhall recounted a powerful lesson his mother imparted during a difficult moment in his childhood.

“When I was trying to learn how to ride a bike as a kid with no legs, I would cry and say, ‘I can’t do it,’” Woodhall shared in a post on Instagram Threads.

“My mom would always calmly tell me, ‘It’s not that you can’t do it, just that you’ll have to find another way to.’ Creativity is a superpower; you just gotta believe in yourself. You got this.”

This simple yet profound advice became a guiding principle for Woodhall, teaching him to approach obstacles with creativity and determination.

His mother’s words not only helped him conquer the challenge of riding a bike but also laid the foundation for his extraordinary achievements as an athlete and role model.

Growing up, Woodhall’s family played a crucial role in nurturing his independence and resilience.

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As the youngest of three boys, he looked up to his older brothers and sought to emulate their adventurous spirit.

“I always understood there was something different about me—I mean, I had to put on my legs every morning. But I have two older brothers, and I followed in their footsteps, doing things they did, including sports,” Woodhall explained.

Although his brothers teased him, as siblings often do, their banter only strengthened his resolve.

.“Sometimes, they would make fun of me, telling me I was disabled, and I would say, ‘I’m not disabled. There’s nothing wrong with me,’” he recalled with a smile.

His family’s unwavering support ensured that Woodhall never saw his prosthetic legs as a limitation.

“My parents and brothers never let me use it as an excuse. They pushed me to do everyday things like ride a bike,” he said.

It was not until he entered public school after years of homeschooling that Woodhall realized society perceived him as disabled. Even then, he refused to let the label define him.

Today, Hunter Woodhall is an embodiment of perseverance and a beacon of hope for others facing challenges.

A three-time Paralympian, he has clinched five medals, including the coveted gold in the 400m T62 at the Paris Games.

Beyond the track, he continues to inspire with his candid reflections on life, disability, and the power of belief.

Woodhall’s journey reminds us that adversity is not the end but an opportunity to discover new paths.

His mother’s words resonate far beyond his childhood struggle: they are a call to embrace creativity, believe in oneself and always find another way.