Eugenio Santana Franco, at 64 years old, is set to make his debut in the para-archery event at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. As one of the oldest competitors in the sport, Eugenio brings with him a deeply inspiring story.
Previously, he worked as a nurse, where he treated many children facing limb amputations. “I would tell them about the things they could still do,” he recalled. When the children expressed their doubts, saying things like, “I won’t be able to, I’ll have no legs,” Eugenio began showing them videos of para-archery. He specifically referenced Matt Stutzman, a well-known para-archer, to demonstrate what was possible despite their challenges.
Eugenio’s intention was to inspire those young patients as they began new chapters in their lives amidst feelings of despair. “Years later, I showed them videos of myself,” he noted, illustrating his journey.
Speaking from his wheelchair, Eugenio shared the health issues he has faced over the years, detailing the progressive decline in his condition. Diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, diabetes, hypertension, and Parkinson’s disease, he also discovered a heart aneurysm two years ago that cannot be treated surgically.
Ankylosing spondylitis, which causes joint stiffness, prompted his reliance on a wheelchair. “It started in 2011, and it took about four or five years for a proper diagnosis. Initially, I used a cane, then crutches, and eventually a wheelchair,” he explained.
Despite his own challenges, Eugenio remained mentally resilient. “I worked all my life with patients and witnessed various conditions and difficulties. I took it naturally; I was somehow used to that,” he said, advocating for a positive outlook. “It’s the best you can do. That can happen to anyone. You need to approach it with a smile and take the best out of it.”