4 Famous People in Wheelchairs Who Inspire Us to Do More

Every once in a while, you find yourself in the presence of someone who inspires you to do more. Whether it's learning a new word every day, or dedicating time to pursue a passion, these things, no matter how big or small, are sparked by learning from someone else's actions. Here is our list of 4 notable famous people in wheelchairs who changed the world.

4 Notable Figures Throughout History Who Changed the World

Stephen Hawking

At the age of 8, Stephen Hawking defied his father's wishes by developing a passion for mathematics. His mother and father, both having medical backgrounds, wanted their son to pursue a career in medicine. A brilliant student, Hawking began his research in cosmology and general relativity at the University of Cambridge. He fell in love with Jane Wilde and got married, and along the way, was diagnosed with ALS, or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Having been told by doctors he only had two years to live, Hawking continued on with his research. In 1966, 3 years after his diagnosis, he completed his doctorate at Cambridge. In 1970, 7 years after his diagnosis, he used quantum theory and general relativity to show that black holes can emit radiation. The years passed and Hawking continued his researched and published, "A Brief History of Time: From the Big Bang to Black Holes", a book that later became a worldwide best-seller. By this time Hawking used his wheelchair full-time and in 1985, he lost his ability to speak after catching pneumonia. Technology helped Hawking gain back his voice, and through a unique system that was attached to his wheelchair, he was able to communicate. Discoveries made by Hawking throughout his life has forever changed science. Because of him, we have a greater understanding of the cosmos and the unknown universe is closer to us than it has ever been. Hawking not only made an imprint in the science world, but pop culture as well. He made appearances in The Simpsons, Star Trek, The Big Bang Theory and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. A beloved scientist and brilliant man, Stephen Hawking died at the age of 76 on March 14, 2018.

Tanni Grey-Thompson

Born with spina bifida, Tanni Grey-Thompson became not only a famous disabled person in sports but remains one of the world's most notable athletes. At the age of 13, Tanni found her calling in Wheelchair Racing, and at 17, she became a part of the British Wheelchair Racing Squad. Her Paralympic career started in 1984 when she competed for Wales in the 100m at the Junior National Games. In 1988, her international career began. Competing at her first Paralympics in Seoul, Tanni won bronze in the 400m. From there, her career flourished. She won the 1992 London Wheelchair Marathon, and that same year, won four gold medals in the 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m at the Paralympics in Barcelona. During the 400 meter race in Barcelona, Tanni became the first woman to brake the 60 second barrier. For the next 12 years, she continued training and participating in the games until her final Paralympic games in Athens in 2004. Over her successful Paralympic career, Tanni Grey-Thompson won a total of 11 gold medals, 4 silvers and 1 bronze medal. She also competed in numerous World Championships and broke 30 World Records on the track.

Christopher Reeve

Christopher Reeve, a superhero both on screen and off, inspired millions around the world to do the things they never thought possible. In his most famous film, Reeve, a part-time news reporter and part-time Superman, leads a double life as he realizes his destiny to protect humankind. Developing a passion for acting at the young age of 9, Reeve followed his dreams to Julliard and continued working until he reached the big screen. A talented actor, Reeve played leading men in romantic dramas and thrillers throughout his lifetime. In 1995, while competing in an equestrian event, Reeve was thrown from his horse, breaking two cervical vertebrae and injuring his spinal cord. For the rest of his life, Reeve advocated for spinal cord research, funding innovative research and working to improve the quality of life for those living with paralysis. Until his death in 2004, Reeve, in many ways, become a real-life Superman.

Frida Kahlo

Frida Kahlo is not only a famous person in a wheelchair, but remains one of the greatest artist and feminists of our time. Renowned for her colorful self-portraits, her art continues to inspire millions. Overcoming great difficulties from the beginning, Frida was born with spina bifida, which affected both her spinal and leg development. At the age of 6, she developed childhood polio and when she was 18, suffered serious injuries from a trolley car accident. During her recovery, Frida began painting. Those paintings, mostly portraits, reflect her disabilities. Her numerous paintings portray her fascination for her own body and its limitations. The way Frida portrayed herself was admired by a worldwide audience, and that admiration continues today.