Paralympian Medallist Tom Gallagher on overcoming challenges and Swimming for a Cure

We sat down with the inspiring Paralympian, Tom Gallagher, to hear about his incredible journey to gold at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, and why he's using his platform to champion the crucial need for groundbreaking cancer research 

When twins Tom and Marty Gallagher were born prematurely in May 1999, their parents couldn’t have predicted the journey ahead. Taken straight to the special care unit, it was soon discovered that Tom, the younger of the two, had developed cerebral palsy — a lifelong condition affecting posture and movement. It wasn’t the news any family wanted to hear. Yet, throughout his life, Tom has refused to let his diagnosis hold him back. If anything, it’s driven him to achieve incredible feats. 

From Wales to Australia: A sporting journey

Originally from Cardiff, Wales, the Gallagher family moved to Australia when Tom and his brother were just seven years old. It was here that Tom’s love for sport truly took hold. “Everyone swims here,” he says, “so I started with surf lifesaving. I wasn’t a swimmer at first, but I really enjoyed the competition.” 

Tom quickly made a name for himself in the water, competing in both the ocean and the pool. Before long, he was winning state championships and national medals, never letting his CP diagnosis hold him back. “I liked board paddling in surf lifesaving the most, but as I got better at swimming, I started winning races. It wasn’t until I was 16 that I really began to excel.” 

Tom’s journey took an unexpected turn when he was introduced to para-swimming just ten months before the Tokyo Paralympic Games. With encouragement from his coaches, he embraced the challenge, made the Australian team, and found himself competing on the world stage. 

Overcoming health challenges

Tom’s journey hasn’t been without its obstacles. Alongside CP, he’s faced life-threatening health challenges, including severe pancreatitis attacks. “I nearly died a few times from pancreatitis,” he says. “But I kept pushing through because I love competing.” 

Tom’s unwavering determination and competitive spirit helped him succeed even in the toughest moments. At the Tokyo Paralympics, he earned a bronze medal, finishing third despite a pancreatitis attack during the race. “I missed out on the chance to stand on the podium and receive my medal because I was being rushed to the hospital,” he reflects. “It wasn’t exactly fun, but I was proud of my performance, especially considering the circumstances.” 

Tom went on to compete in the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, winning gold in the 50-metre freestyle. “I went from being a surf lifesaver to learning to swim competitively. Winning gold in Paris felt like a full-circle moment. It was proof that all the hard work and sacrifices were worth it.” 

A personal connection to cancer awareness

In addition to his health struggles, Tom’s twin brother Marty was diagnosed with cancer when they were just 15 years old. “It was a huge shock for our family. My mum tried to shield me from what was happening, but watching my brother go through that was really tough,” Tom shares. Thankfully, Marty is doing much better now, but the experience brought the reality of a cancer diagnosis into sharp focus. 

Marty’s diagnosis, combined with the experience of a close family friend now in the later stages of cancer, had a profound impact on Tom. It’s one of the reasons why he decided to get involved with Cure Cancer and become an ambassador for Swim for a CURE. “Cancer touches everyone, whether you’re an athlete or not. When it’s someone close to you, it really hits home,” he explains. 

Tom’s involvement is all about raising funds to kick-start groundbreaking research and educating people on its importance. “Even a small donation can help,” he says. “It’s not just about big donations; it’s about starting conversations and getting people to think about it.” 

Looking to the future

While Tom’s career has been filled with highs, it hasn’t been without its challenges. After the 2024 Games, he underwent knee surgery, but he’s already focused on what’s next, with his sights set on the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles. “I’m working hard to get faster and better,” he says. “I love training, and I’m focusing on breaking records along the way.” 

Tom is also determined to make an impact as an ambassador for Swim for a Cure. His message is clear: support cancer research, raise awareness, and make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. His dedication to both his sport and cancer awareness is truly inspiring. 

 “We all know someone who’s been affected by cancer,” he says. “And it’s research that makes a difference.” 

A huge thanks to Tom for his incredible support! 

You can donate to Tom's Swim For A CURE fundraising page here: