Win Charles is not just a name, but a symbol of triumph and indefatigable spirit. Her story, which we delve into in this podcast episode, begins in the frosty town of Aspen, Colorado, where she was born with cerebral palsy—a condition that was destined to shape her life, but not define it. With the solid support of her mother, who faced her own battles with asthma and a brain aneurysm, Win forged a path that would see her overcoming not just the bitter winters of Aspen but also the constraints of her physical condition.
Win's relocation to Phoenix in March 2020 was a pivotal moment, born from the need for better living conditions conducive to her training as an Ironman competitor. It is in Phoenix that Win's independence shines through; her days are filled with the rigor of physical therapy, the discipline of work, and the warmth of social interactions. It's a testament to the power of self-advocacy, especially for athletes with disabilities, and a daily routine that reflects her unyielding determination to live life on her own terms.
Technology has played a significant role in Win's journey. With the innovative use of speech dictation and Siri, she has broken barriers in writing and podcasting, transforming these platforms into conduits of hope and inspiration. Win’s literary works, including her biography "I Win" and the novel "The View From My Heels," offer insights into the life of a person with disabilities, with an underlying message of resilience and empowerment.
Triathlon training in Colorado, with its high-altitude environment, presented Win with both an advantage and a host of challenges. Her narrative of participating in the Kona Ironman is a heartening account of adaptation and perseverance. With her teammate's support, Win participated in the race with unique methods that accommodated her needs—swimming with assistance and being pushed in a running wheelchair, embodying the very essence of determination.
Win's story also delves into the loss of her beloved mother to a brain aneurysm, an event that propelled her to start her podcast in 2012, and later to write her book with the help of Siri. These projects became a tribute to her mother's legacy and a platform for Win to share her experiences, offering solace and encouragement to others facing similar challenges.
In the episode, Win shares the intimate details of her life, including the emotional toll of her mother's death, her battles with back pain and scoliosis, and the subsequent decision to undergo surgery. She emphasizes the critical nature of healthcare self-advocacy and the importance of listening to one's body—a message that resonates with many, especially athletes training for demanding events.
This episode is not just a recounting of struggles but a celebration of the victories that come with facing life head-on. Win's story is a powerful reminder that with a supportive community, relentless pursuit of dreams, and an indomitable spirit, triumph is not just possible—it's inevitable.
Tune in to this episode for an uplifting conversation that will leave you inspired, educated on the realities of living with cerebral palsy, and in awe of the power of the human spirit to overcome and excel. Win Charles’ journey is a compelling narrative of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of happiness against all odds.
