Paralympic medal winner, World Record holder, and Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame inductee, are just a few of Cheryl Angelelli’s accomplishments after a tragic accident in a swimming pool in 1983 left her a quadriplegic. At the time, some may have thought a promising athletic career was cut short. For Cheryl, it was just beginning.
Cheryl returned to the pool and made the 2000 Paralympic Swim Team. Since then she has returned twice, earning a pair of bronze medals at the 2004 Paralympics in Athens, and a pair of silver medals at the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing. She is one of Michigan’s most decorated Paralympians and currently holds 15 American Records and 3 World Records.
Cheryl is the director of marketing and public relations for DMC Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan where she serves as a source of inspiration and motivation to newly disabled patients.
In 1991, she was crowned Ms. Wheelchair Michigan and went on to win the title of First Runner-Up Ms. Wheelchair America. During her reign, she traveled as a motivational speaker, dispelling the myths and stereotypes about persons with disabilities.
Swimming Honors:
- 15 American Records, 3 World Records
- Ranked #1 in the world from 2006 – 2008 in 100 meter and 200 meter freestyle
- Member of 2000, 2004, 2008 Paralympic Swim Team
- Member of U.S. National Disabled Swim Team 1998 – 2011
- 4‑Time Paralympic Medalist (2 Silver, 2 Bronze)
- 7‑Time Gold Medalist at IPC World Championships
Awards and Honors:
- Michigan Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame inductee 2000
- Michigan Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame Disabled Female Athlete of the Year 2000
- 2000 Female Amateur Athlete of the Year for the State of Michigan, presented by Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports