The Unsung Heroes of the Paralympics: Ottobock Technicians
As the Paralympics unfold in Paris, amidst the glory and the cheers, there is a group of unsung heroes working tirelessly behind the scenes – Ottobock technicians. These dedicated individuals are the backbone of the Paralympic Games, ensuring that athletes have the equipment they need to compete at the highest level.
A metallic scent, heavy and distinct, lingers in the air as Ottobock employees Adam Gill and Chris Voitl work diligently to repair a wheelchair for a Canadian rugby player. This is just one of the hundreds of repairs they tackle daily at the Paralympics in Paris.
For Ottobock, a global medical technology company, the relationship with the Paralympics dates back decades. What started as a modest white tent at the Seoul Games in 1988 has now evolved into a team of 158 technicians from over 40 countries, providing on-site repairs and assistance to Paralympic athletes.
The Ottobock team operates out of an in-venue service center at the Champs-de-Mars Arena in Paris, where they focus on wheelchair repairs. From welding to troubleshooting, these technicians ensure that athletes’ equipment is in top condition for competition.
Modern wheelchairs and prosthetics used by Paralympians can cost up to $50,000, making them a significant investment. For athletes from developing countries, a visit to the Ottobock repair shop may be the first time they have access to top-quality gear.
Heinrich Popow, a former Paralympic track gold medalist and Ottobock brand ambassador, highlighted the impact of these repairs on athletes’ lives. He recounted a touching moment when an athlete from Kazakhstan received a new prosthetic limb and broke down in tears.
With over 1,000 repairs completed before the Games even began, the Ottobock team is making a difference, one smile at a time. The speed and efficiency of their repairs have not gone unnoticed by Paralympians like Stuart Robinson and Sydney Satchell, who have experienced firsthand the dedication and skill of Ottobock technicians.
For Paralympians, easy access to repairs and maintenance reflects a shift in how disability needs are prioritized globally. As Sydney Satchell aptly puts it, “We don’t have to look down on anyone in a chair or have to be googly-eyed with somebody that is wearing a prosthetic.” The work of Ottobock technicians shines a light on the importance of mobility and inclusivity.
As the Paralympics continue to showcase the incredible abilities of athletes with disabilities, let us not forget the behind-the-scenes heroes who make it all possible. Ottobock technicians are a crucial part of the Paralympic journey, ensuring that every athlete has the tools they need to succeed.
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