IGNITING Success: How the PFC sparks excellence in Para sport

If you were to look up resilience in the dictionary, there would be a picture of six-time Paralympic medallist Mollie Jepsen. The 25-year-old from West Vancouver, British Columbia made a stunning debut at the PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games where she won four medals in five events, through to her ongoing journey to represent Canada again at the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics. Jepsen’s journey has been profoundly shaped by the support of the Paralympic Foundation of Canada (PFC) and its donors.

“My journey as a Para alpine skier has been fueled by the unwavering support of people like you, the PFC donors,” Jepsen shared. “Your generosity has directly impacted my ability to achieve my goals, providing the resources, training, and opportunities I need to compete on the world stage. Without this support, I’m not sure my story would look the same.”

Jepsen’s path to greatness began with the Whistler Mountain Ski Club, competing alongside able-bodied athletes. It was here that she developed her skills, tenacity, and a unique perspective on resilience. While injuries presented significant challenges, these experiences shaped her determination to succeed, not just as a Para athlete but as a competitor at the highest level of sport.

“Growing up, I was always encouraged to focus on my abilities rather than my disability,” Jepsen explained. “Competing against able-bodied athletes pushed me to refine my skills, but it also taught me how important it is to be seen as an athlete first. That’s one of the reasons I’m so passionate about the Paralympic Movement, it highlights our abilities and achievements before anything else.”

Jepsen’s rise to the top has been meteoric. At her first Paralympic Games in PyeongChang, she earned recognition as the Canadian Paralympic Committee’s ‘Best Female Athlete’ in 2018. Yet, her journey has not been without hurdles. From injuries to the financial challenges of competing at an elite level, Jepsen acknowledges the critical role of the PFC in helping her navigate these obstacles.

“The stress of balancing financial barriers with the demands of training and recovering from injuries is a challenge many athletes face,” she said. “PFC donors help alleviate that burden in ways that I can’t thank them enough for. They create the space for athletes like me to focus entirely on what matters most… being the best version of ourselves, on and off the slopes.”

The support provided by PFC donors extends far beyond funding. From access to world-class training facilities to performance recognition funds that ease the financial strain of competition, the generosity of donors has created an environment where athletes can thrive.

“Every donation, no matter the size, has a direct impact on what we’re able to achieve,” Jepsen said. “It’s not just about winning medals. It’s about the opportunities to grow, improve, and inspire. That’s what fuels me every day.”

While Jepsen’s focus remains on achieving her own goals that include aiming to compete at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, she is equally committed to inspiring the next generation of athletes.

“I want to continue breaking down barriers between Para and able-bodied sports,” she said. “I want to show the world that athletes with disabilities belong at every level of sport. At the same time, I hope to mentor younger athletes and work toward making sports more inclusive and accessible for everyone.”

Jepsen emphasizes that the work of the Paralympic Movement is far from over. While progress has been made in creating opportunities for Para athletes, there is still much to be done to ensure future generations have the tools and support they need to succeed.

“When I think about the future of Para sport, I feel so hopeful,” she said. “There’s still work to be done, but every step forward is a step toward a more inclusive, more supportive world. Donors to the Paralympic Foundation of Canada are the ones making that happen. They are igniting a movement that will continue to grow for years to come.”

To Jepsen, the support of PFC donors is nothing short of life-changing. “Your belief in us fuels our drive to achieve more, inspire others, and push the boundaries in sport and in life,” she said. “It’s an investment not only in athletes like me but in an amazing, more inclusive future for all of us.”

As the Paralympic Foundation of Canada continues to champion the dreams of Canadian Para athletes, Jepsen’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that community support can have on igniting change through sport.

“Thank you to every donor who has supported me and my fellow athletes,” Jepsen said in closing. “You have made my dreams possible, and I hope you know the life-changing impact you’ve had. Together, we’re creating something extraordinary.”

Join Us in IGNITING the Future of Canadian Para Sport.

If you want to help IGNITE the future of Canadian Para sport, consider making a donation today. Your support will have a lasting impact on the next generation of Para athletes. Visit the Paralympic Foundation of Canada today to contribute and be part of building a brighter, more inclusive future for Canadian Para sport. Together, let’s work to IGNITE the future for Para sport in Canada.