In Tampa, Fla., a particular residence captured the festive spirit over the recent holiday season, standing out among its neighbors. The Farmer family’s home transformed into a gallery of sorts, celebrating a heartwarming homecoming.

Their living room became a tribute to one of their sons, adorned with photographs that told a story of achievement and support. “It’s a reflection of all the family and friends who have been there for Declan,” explained Patti Farmer, highlighting the emotional significance behind the display.

The collection of images offered a glimpse into memories spanning three Paralympic Winter Games, each picture a testament to the journey and dedication of their son, Declan. These visual mementos not only celebrated his accomplishments but also the unwavering encouragement from loved ones throughout his remarkable athletic career.

Meanwhile, across the globe, the spirit of another renowned figure, Leonardo da Vinci, illuminated the Milan Cortina Olympics, symbolically represented by two cauldrons. This event underscored the intersection of art and sport, adding a historical layer to the contemporary games.

“Declan scored a goal, and then we went into overtime, and yea we won!” Farmer said.

There is a space for a fourth, represented now with an Italian flag.

Growing up in Tampa, sports came easily to Declan Farmer, who was born without legs.

He was naturally athletic and his parents, Matt and Patti Farmer, set out to find the right sport for him.

“We always knew from a young age that Declan wanted to be part of something bigger than himself because he was always competitive, and he always wanted to be on a team,” Patti Farmer said.

When Declan was 8 years old, the family heard about a team from Long Island, NY holding spring exhibition series for sled hockey.

“Somehow he got word of it. From the first time on the ice, he really just took to it. It was a perfect sport for him,” said Matt Farmer. “It is a great outlet because physical fitness for disabled community is super important.”

It’s been a race to the top ever since.

Declan is chasing his fourth Paralympic gold medal with Team USA.

“Declan wants people to see him first as an athlete and he wants them to know about sled hockey — how fast it is, how physical it is — and he wants people to fall in love with the sport,” Patti Farmer said.

It’s been eight years since Declan’s family could attend the Paralympics in person, since the pandemic kept them, and all families, away from Beijing.

Ronan Farmer credited his brother, Declan, with introducing him to his favorite sport.

“I just wouldn’t have played if he didn’t start, and now it’s my favorite sport,” he said. “So I’m always thankful for that. Unlike Declan, I’m terrible at hockey.”

For Ronan, it’s a thrill to watch his brother vanquish his opponents.

“He’s so dominant out there,” Ronan Farmer said . “It’s obviously a completely different sport than standup hockey but to see the Wayne Gretzky of this sport it’s fun to watch the level of domination.”

Watch Declan, the entire sled hockey team and all the Paralympic action after the Olympics, March 6 through March 15.