Nworgu Ogechika Esther

By Beth Thomas

When Esther was just 8 years old, her life took an unexpected and very sad turn. A native of Nigeria, Esther was a cheerful and happy little girl. But one day she suddenly lost the use of both her legs. None of the doctors could explain it! She became a permanent wheelchair user.  

As if that wasn’t enough, not long after Esther’s world was turned upside down, she faced another devastating blow. Her father passed away. Esther was left grieving the loss of her father and adjusting to a new physical reality—all at once.

But Esther’s story isn’t one of defeat. It’s one of courage, strength, and faith.

Her mother became her rock, constantly building Esther’s confidence and reminding her that she was capable, loved, and valuable—even when the world around them tried to say otherwise. In a society where people with different abilities often face discrimination, Esther’s family, especially her mother, stood strong, planting seeds of dignity and hope in her heart.

Esther also found support in her church. It wasn’t just a place of worship—it was a lifeline. One day she heard a sermon about Mephibosheth, a man in the Bible who also could not use his legs. That message struck a chord with her. She saw someone in Scripture whose story resembled her own, and she realized that God had not forgotten her.

Years later, in 2018, Esther’s story took yet another turn! She began competing in sports, specifically powerlifting. Against all odds she rose through the ranks, earning national and international medals. Her hard work and determination took her all the way to the Paris 2024 Paralympics, where she won a silver medal by lifting 118 kilograms (260 pounds)—even with a dislocated shoulder.

Through all her training and traveling Esther remained faithful to her beliefs. She kept the Sabbath holy, never once competing on a Saturday. Remarkably, all her competitions were scheduled on other days—a miracle she doesn’t take for granted.

Today Esther isn’t just an athlete or a survivor. She’s a changemaker. She recently launched a nonprofit organization called Reviving Voice Charity Foundation. Its mission is close to her heart: to support children with disabilities, orphans, and those living in poverty. Esther believes her story isn’t just for her—it’s for others too. Her life is a testimony to God’s grace, her own resilience, faith, and the power of using difficulty for good.