Stephanie Millward

Stephanie Millward is a British Paralympic swimmer known for her remarkable career in international swimming. Born in Jordonstown, Northern Ireland, she was a competitive swimmer from a young age; however, at the age of 17, she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), which threatened to end her swimming ambitions. Despite the challenges brought on by her condition, Millward’s determination and resilience led her to adapt and eventually pursue a career in para-swimming.

Millward competed in her first Paralympic Games in 2008 in Beijing, representing Great Britain. Her breakthrough came during the 2012 London Paralympic Games, where she won five medals, including four silver and one bronze, solidifying her position as one of the world's top para-swimmers. Four years later, at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, Millward achieved her greatest success, winning two gold medals in the 4x100m medley and 100m backstroke, as well as three additional medals.

In addition to her Paralympic achievements, Millward has won multiple medals in IPC World Championships and European Championships. She was recognized with an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 2017 for her services to swimming.

Throughout her career, Millward has been an advocate for people living with MS, raising awareness and inspiring others with her perseverance and triumph over adversity, and sharing her story with her autobiography "Paying the Price."