Inspirational paralympian Karen Darke has been made an honorary fellow of the University of Cumbria.

The wheelchair athlete was honored for her sporting success at a graduation ceremony in Carlisle Cathedral.

At the age of 21, and only six months into her PhD studies at the University of Aberdeen, a climbing accident left her paralysed from the chest down.

Her positive attitude and determination to live a life where all things are possible prompted Karen to continue her studies and gain her PhD in Geology, a mere three years after her accident.

Karen, who gained an MA in development training from the University of Cumbria, was recognised for her medal winning success as a Paralympian in hand-cycling - winning gold in the Olympics in Rio.

She told graduates: "It's easy to feel sorry for yourself when things are difficult but other people are in far worse situations.

"I remember being in hospital after my accident and there was a lady there who tried for six months to peel a banana because of a wrist injury."

Karen told the students to "be honest" with themselves and to "make the most" of everyday.

She said: "When I was first paralysed it was hard to imagine I could ever learn to sit up in bed without the use of my abdominal muscles, or get dressed myself.

"The idea of cycling across mountains or winning Paralympic medals was no-where on my radar. Everything in life comes step by step. When we accomplish one small thing that we never imagined possible, then our mind extends to consider what next.

"I once gave up my ‘real’ job as a geologist, with some fear and trepidation, to follow my true passion – that of sport and adventure.

"It was with the belief that life itself is an adventure to learn and grow from, and that if we are living with passion and zest for what we do, then we will effuse energy and positive things into the world."

Speaking after being named an honorary fellow, Karen, who was also awarded an MBE this year, said: "I'm a bit overwhelmed.

"Cumbria has always held a special place in my heart. The county was my indoctrination into the outdoors.

"The Lake District has always fuelled my passion for the outdoors."

Friends, Gail and Adam Desborough, of Carlisle, turned up to watch Karen receive her award. They are good friends with Karen's parents.

Gail said: "We are so proud of her. We spent our lives being proud of her. She's wonderful."

Also graduating in Thursday morning's ceremony were drama, English, creative writing, early years education, education studies and primary education with qualified teacher status.

Rebecca Rice, 23, of Workington, graduated in primary education with Qualified Teaching Status.
She said: "I want to stay and work in west Cumbria. I'm a home bird so hope to get a job in a school there. I will try and do some supply teaching and register with an agency.

"I am so pleased to have graduated. We are going to the Crown and Mitre for a glass of champagne and then we're going to the Last Zebra for a meal and then drinking cocktails all day long."

Her friend and colleague, John Shepherd, 20, of Turnberry Way, Kingstown, Carlisle, also graduated and wants to be a primary teacher.

He said: "I want to stay in Carlisle as I went to school here. I like the area and I am a big Carlisle United fan. I am overwhelmed to have graduated. It's a great feeling. I hope to get some supply work.

"My family are with me and we're going to the Thin White Duke for a meal to celebrate."

The degrees and awards were presented by Julie Mennell, vice chancellor of the University of Cumbria.