By Ben Tompkins

Perseverance

Local karate instructor continues to teach despite paralysis

Jun 14, 2021 | 3:34 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Chantelle Grafton was in a mountain biking accident two years ago which left her paralyzed from the neck down. Being a quadriplegic has had a huge effect on her, however she has found new ways to continue doing what she loves to do.

What she loves to do is being as involved as she can in the karate world with her husband Warren. They have both competed as athletes in karate, but leading up to the accident they were a lot more involved in teaching at the Nechako Karate Club.

After spending nearly a year in hospitals, they have both gotten back to teaching.

“It’s familiar and it’s very exciting to be back. It feels like you can forget for a little bit that you’re injured or in a chair and just give support and coach the kids,” said Chantelle.

For the couple, they have bigger goals than just teaching together. Warren wants to get back to competing at a national level with Chantelle as his ring coach.

Chetwynd wildfire

"Really quite terrified:" Chetwynd reacts to ongoing fight against wildfire

5m ago

Hospice looks to expand into palliative care

50m ago

fibre supply

New report highlights fibre supply issues in BC

54m ago

“It’s a significant undertaking. I don’t even care about my result at nationals, if I’m able to walk into the ring with her beside me in my corner than we won,” said Warren Grafton.

Warren also noted that this could be a ground-breaking entry way to inspire others, who face the same challenges as Chantelle.

“I’m kind of hoping too that maybe seeing her coaching ringside might even lead into some inspiration for some of the para-athletes to transition to a coaching role.”

For Chantelle not only does this provide a challenge that she gets to work towards, but also a way she feels she can give back the love and support she’s received from her husband.

It’s all a lot of work, but I think it’s worth it. I think we like the idea of working as a team, we’re more of a team now than ever before. I’m excited if I can help support Warren the way he’s supported me.