When she was just 16 months old, Haven Shepherd was involved in a bomb explosion in Vietnam that would change her life forever.
Speaking to Truly, Shepherd revealed that her parents had her out of an illicit relationship, and believed the only way the three of them could be together was through a family suicide. But after strapping bombs to themselves and detonating them, Haven miraculously survived the blast that killed her biological parents.
After Haven's biological grandparents were unable to afford her medical bills, she was placed into a shelter and adopted four months later by her new family.
Now 17 years old, Haven says that she has never been insecure about not having legs because new mom Shelly "dressed it up - how attractive it was to not have legs".
Haven admits that although it can be difficult not having her legs, she does not understand why she needs to feel upset or insecure about not having her legs.
However, she does admit that there are times where she wakes up as thinks: "Woah! I don't have my legs."
Growing up, Haven was lucky enough to have a huge pool in her backyard, and after encouragement from her mom, she took up swimming as a sport - initially learning from her uncle, who works as a swim coach.
Haven has now been swimming for 10 years, and says she "has never looked back".
Her dedication and skill meant that Haven intending to qualify for Team USA at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo - however, due to the ongoing pandemic, her dreams have been put on pause for a year.
Haven currently resides in Carthage Missouri, using her relative's backyard pool to swim laps.
And in the meantime, the inspirational teen is also breaking into the modeling industry, having already appeared in campaigns for Tommy Hilfiger adaptive wear and swimwear brand Jolyn.
Haven has also amassed over 17.5K followers on Instagram, frequently using the platform to discuss the importance of self-love.
In one post she writes: "I have embraced being unique and that has made all the difference in my life. Accept the things you can’t change. Change the things you can."
In another post, Haven explains how she is "passionate about girls learning to embrace their unique self! We are all so different and that should be celebrated!"
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She adds: "I know I am unique, but I also know that is exactly what makes me special!"
Haven has also opened up about what her life would be like if she still had legs, saying:
"My life would be very different. I would still be in Vietnam, and I wouldn't have the life I have here now.
"I'm very blessed to have the life I live - I see that as a very big pleasure.
"I get to travel all over the world, and I see how blessed I am to have all that - just because I don't have legs."
Haven is a true inspiration - and we cannot wait to see her compete next year! Good luck, Haven!
