The 18-year-old from Boston, who won gold in the S6 100 metres freestyle at London 2012 and is also the world record holder for 100m and 400m, will appear in a series of advertisements for the Ontario, Canada-founded company.

"Our mission is to ensure that people in wheelchairs are able to safely get wherever they are going whether it is on public transportation, taxi or their personal vehicle," said Dan Bruck, Q'Straint marketing manager.

"Victoria is an amazing young lady who has overcome incredible odds during her life to become a very successful para-athlete.

We are honoured to have someone with her dedication, poise and determination as our brand advocate."

Paralysed at age 11 due to transverse myelitis, a rare viral disease, Arlen spent nearly two years in a coma.

Victoria Arlen has been named as a brand ambassador for Q'Straint

"The independence that Q'Straint provides from a security and safety perspective means so much to those of us in wheelchairs and offers the highest level of reassurance for our families. I'm excited to be part of their team," she said.

Transportation vehicles serving the athletes during last year's Paralympics in London were outfitted with Q'Straint products.

Arlen's personal mobility vehicle is equipped with Q'Straint retractors.

"The independence that Q'Straint provides from a security and safety perspective means so much to those of us in wheelchairs and offers the highest level of reassurance for our families. I'm excited to be part of their team," said Arlen.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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