A Real Self Made Man

Andrew O’Bryan is just a typical freshman here at Weedsport High School. This year at swimming sectionals, Andrew placed 14th and 16th in his events. For a freshman, that is outstanding. He not only has accomplished so much for a freshman, but he also did it with only one leg.

After losing his leg when he was in just 6th grade, Andrew sometimes struggles at everyday activities, but swimming is not a problem for him. Andrew spends extra hours working towards becoming a better swimmer. One day, O’Bryan plans on competing in the paralympics. Andrew is all about setting goals for himself. He sets realistic goals, which has allowed him to accomplish everything he has wanted to this year, including his main goal.

“I’m going to sectionals this year,” O’Bryan told his coach.

His coach and teammates did not doubt he would make it. In fact, they were completely supportive of him and they don’t treat him any differently than they do everyone else. However, Andrew says that at swim meets, some people approach him and tell him he is an inspiration. O’Bryan doesn’t agree.

“I’m just a regular person like everyone else,” he says.

Most of Andrew’s friends don’t see him any different than anyone else, but others treat him with slight pity and lenience. He gave an example; if he were to fall down more people would care than if anyone else fell. O’Bryan doesn’t enjoy being pitied because his prosthetic hasn’t held him back from anything, as you can tell from his swimming accomplishments.

“I want to be able to look in the mirror one day, and say ‘I did it’.”

Andrew has three more years in high school swimming to improve, and be able to meet and achieve higher and better goals. For what he has accomplished as a freshman, he has a great future in sight.