Family reacts as an Arkansas native wins bronze in the Paralympic Games in Paris in 2024

Mayflower, Arkansas – Julia Gaffney, a resident of Mayflower, is returning from the Paralympics with a bronze medal.

At the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021, Gaffney took home two bronze medals; more than 100 dives later, she has still another medal to her credit.

She expressed her gratitude for being an inspiration to others, saying it’s a moment she worked hard for.

“Now, I truly hope these little girls look up to me and say, ‘Oh my gosh, I can do this,’ because I was that little girl who looked up to everyone,” Gaffney stated.

She claims it required numerous practice sessions, commitment, and most significantly, unwavering support from her family.

According to Julia’s mother Kristen Gaffney, their family was not permitted to attend the Tokyo Paralympics, but this time around everyone was able to go and show support for Julia.

We’re thrilled to be able to watch her participate for the first time because this has been a really new experience for both her and us, Kristen added.

Despite having two missing legs from birth, Julia never let that stop her from pursuing her true passion of swimming. Now, she hopes to encourage others who doubt people with disabilities can achieve success.

She would especially like to thank her home supporters.

“I feel so loved and supported by all of you, and I am so grateful that I could make you proud,” Gaffney remarked.

She will compete again in the 50-meter Butterfly class SM7 on September 7.