Woman with disability works wonders

Guaimaro, Feb 12, 2015. - The enthusiasm of Iraida Muñoz Sifonte, local member of the Cuban Association of the Physically Impaired (ACLIFIM, by its acronym in Spanish), stands out as an inspiration for those who like her represent Marti´s maxim: "There is no greater difficulty that love wouldn´t conquer ".

Always active, protected by her wheelchair that helps her walk along the city streets, Iraida smiles at everyone. This passionate woman was born on January 21, 1959. Fate decreed that she suffered from polio, so she showed with will and effort that despite her disability, love can also work wonders.

Iraida is an example to follow, muse, great champion; she has managed to earn the respect and admiration of her fellow countrymen, that is why she is known as the "unique great sporting figure" in the city Cradle of the Constitution. This affirmation is based on her memorable achievements. The girl, who suffered from Infantile Paralysis, thanks to her energy and the possibilities provided by the Cuban Revolution, fought and became the girl who one day decided to become a track and field champion, and so she did.

Faithful witness that dreams turn into reality, exhibits in her curriculum the titles proving she is the winner of five silver medals in the second series of the 'Central American Wheelchair Games ', held in 1997, in El Salvador. Among her results are also included the fourth place in all track and field types and third place in the first marathon of 21 kilometers, during the eighth series of  'Pan- American Wheelchair Games' held in Puerto Rico.

Iraida Muñoz Sifonte participated in all national competitions winning gold and silver medals during her athlete period. She competed in marathons and enrolled in five series of Marabana event. She was the only woman in the Cuban nation who faced twice the 42 kilometer race on wheelchair.

This Cuban from Guaimaro municipality also suffers from detached retina, which prevented her from participating in competitions. Iraida couldn´t have children but made a million friends and has a family that never abandons her. She is always the first one in sports, political and cultural activities.

To the people that today admire her gesture, perseverance and struggle to confirm that nothing makes us different from others, Iraida Muñoz Sifonte shines for her human greatness and enduring conviction of knowing she is useful.