Leary’s incredible 2024 brought two Paralympic gold medals, one silver, a world record, and a Paralympic record.

Just three years after suffering a traumatic brain injury in a cycling accident, Leary spearheaded Australia’s campaign at the pool at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.

She set two world records on her way to claiming gold in the women’s 100m freestyle S9 – the first coming in the heats before winning her first individual gold medal with a world-best time of 59.53 seconds.

It was Leary’s second gold of the Paralympics after she inspired Australia to an incredible come-from-behind win in the 4x100m medley relay 34 points final, unfurling a blistering final leg to help set a new Paralympic record.

She also added a silver medal in the Mixed 4x100m freestyle relay 34 points with Chloe Osborn, Rowan Crothers, and Callum Simpson.

Leary’s journey from a near-death experience, learning to walk and talk again, to Paralympic glory has captured the hearts of Australians and people around the world and motivated many to embrace life and appreciate its fragility.

At just 23 years of age, the future is bright for this young star.