Natalie du Toit

I say, 'If I'm able to go out there and achieve a dream, then anybody can do it.'

I hate seaweed.

My message is not just to disabled people, but to everyone: You have to work hard.

I just missed out on qualifying for the Sydney Olympics in 2000.

I think I've achieved everything I wanted to.

Qualifying for the Olympic Games was one of those moments where you just cry because it was like you've climbed Mount Everest.

Back in my mind, I never, ever wanted to give up swimming; it was something that I would carry on with.

The situation in disability sport is growing, and girls like Ellie Cole are doing wonders.

Swimming is my passion and something that I love.

It is wonderful to say that your days behind a school desk are over. It's just another phase in your life.

By 9:30 at night, I go to bed.

I go out there and train as hard as anybody else.

Going out there in the water, it feels as if there's nothing wrong with me.

I don't think of myself as being disabled, or able-bodied.

You have to work hard for what you want to achieve and you have to set goals and dreams and really go for them.

It's been a dream for me since I was six years old to go to the Olympic Games and to finally have that dream realised is something massive for me.

I have always had a dream to take part in an Olympic Games, and losing my leg didn't change anything.

I just want to be myself and go for my own dreams and goals.

I have a strong upper body; I'm an arms swimmer, and I always have been.

Once your dream is fulfilled you face another one.

I'm probably the most negative person around.

I never thought of being disadvantaged.

When you are racing in an able-bodied competition, you're all equal and you go out there and try your best, and that's what counts.

I've been lucky enough to travel the world and win awards and medals, but it was time to stop.

I am always late because people stop me for autographs and say hi.