MANILA, Philippines – Even after a historic romp in the 2018 Asian Para Games, Ernie Gawilan will never forget his humble beginnings before swimming came into his life. 

Gawilan – born with underdeveloped extremities – knew that the water was made for him and his love for the sport opened up opportunties he never imagined. Before copping 3 golds and 2 silvers in the Asiad, he also ruled the ASEAN para swimming scene and even managed to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics. (READ: A rough life hasn’t discouraged paralympic swimmer Ernie Gawilan)

So this incredible Filipino Paralympian hopes to share his story and inspire more differently-abled people to never lose hope. – Rappler.com