Shepherd, 18, was just over a year old and living in Vietnam when her biological parents are said to have had a love affair.

She has been told that her parents were denied marriage and decided to commit suicide together.

Both parents died in the detonation but Shepherd survived - and was forced to amputate both legs.

Six months later, she was adopted by an American family.

Today she competed for the second time in the Paralympics in Tokyo when she started in the 100 meter breaststroke.

However, she did not reach the final.

- I just go out and have fun.

I have reached my goals just by getting here, says the American, according to france24.com.

She also competed in the 200 meter medley where she finished fifth.

MORE PARALYMPICS: "Löfven tried to get hold of me"

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Philip Jönsson: "Löfven tried to get hold of me" Photo: Bildbyrån