paralympics

"Blind AF" tells the story of Shawn Cheshire, a Lauderdale-by-the-Sea resident riding across the country on a solo bike.

People are slamming the account for what they see as mocking Para athletes. But those behind it, and some featured on it, say it's an important tool for increasing visibility and understanding.

Stephanie Lamparez is a physical therapist in New Iberia, Louisiana. But she is also a para-athlete coach and has been for years who's brought teams of Louisiana para-athletes to participate in elite competitions. She's also built a community of athletes along the way.

Jacqui Kapinowski has battled cancer, bacterial meningitis — twice — and a rare neurological disorder that robbed her of the use of her legs. Through it…