Calgary Athlete Yohan Eskrick Overcomes Parkinson’s to Pursue Bobsleigh Dream
Calgary, AB – Yohan Eskrick, a 25-year-old athlete from Calgary, is defying the odds and pushing through barriers to pursue his dream of becoming a professional bobsleigh athlete. Despite being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 21, Eskrick has not let his condition stop him from chasing his passion for sports.
Eskrick’s journey began when he was just 10 years old, when he first discovered his love for bobsleigh while watching the Winter Olympics. He was immediately drawn to the speed, adrenaline, and teamwork involved in the sport. However, his dreams were put on hold when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and coordination.
Despite the challenges he faced, Eskrick refused to give up on his dream. He continued to train and compete in various sports, including track and field, soccer, and rugby. But it wasn’t until he met Canadian bobsleigh athlete, Jesse Lumsden, that he found the inspiration and support he needed to pursue bobsleigh.
Lumsden, who also has Parkinson’s disease, became Eskrick’s mentor and encouraged him to try out for the Canadian bobsleigh team. With Lumsden’s guidance and support, Eskrick made the decision to pursue bobsleigh and has been training rigorously ever since.
Eskrick’s determination and hard work paid off when he was selected to join the Canadian bobsleigh team as a developmental athlete. He is now training alongside some of Canada’s top bobsleigh athletes and is determined to make his mark in the sport.
Despite the challenges he faces due to his condition, Eskrick remains positive and determined. He sees bobsleigh as a way to not only pursue his passion for sports, but also to raise awareness and inspire others living with Parkinson’s disease.
“I want to show people that having Parkinson’s doesn’t mean you have to give up on your dreams,” Eskrick said in an interview with CTV News. “I want to be a role model for others living with this condition and show them that anything is possible if you work hard and never give up.”
Eskrick’s story has already inspired many, including his teammates and coaches. “Yohan is an incredible athlete and an even more incredible person,” said Canadian bobsleigh coach, Todd Hays. “His determination and positive attitude are an inspiration to us all.”
Eskrick’s journey is far from over, but he remains focused and determined to achieve his ultimate goal of competing in the Winter Olympics. With his unwavering determination and support from his mentor, teammates, and coaches, there is no doubt that Eskrick will continue to make a splash in the world of bobsleigh and inspire others along the way.
