Reclaiming your athletic self
Being an amputee does not need to stop you from doing the sports, or any athletic activity. With the help of your prosthetist and these helpful websites you can be on your way to reconnecting with your athletic self.
I've been an amputee for over 13 years and I have used the following resources with great success. I've even volunteered with one, and been a grant recipient of another, so I can fully vouch for these groups. They are all great to work with, have multiple locations, and even virtual opportunities for those who are unable to travel.
Ability 360
Located in Phoenix this facility is open for all different types of disabilities. The entire place is fully adaptable with plenty of disabled parking.
They have an adaptable pool, workout room, basketball, courts, personal trainers...you name it. Be sure to check out their calendar because they have it full of support groups and activities.
Move United
I love this group because they have locations all across the country! In Arizona, they have adaptive water sports and adaptive mountain sports.
If you become a member, they have online workout videos!
Angel City Games
A few years ago, before I joined the US national team, I was the cheer Director for this LA based nonprofit organization, and they have it all.
You can try all different kinds of adaptive sports, as well as their big end of season games in June, which includes a celebrity wheelchair basketball game!
Don’t worry about location, if you’re not local they have some great virtual options.
Challenged Athletes Foundation
Looking for a way to fund your sport? Want to take ballet, or ice hockey, soccer, or any other sport but don't have the funds for either a running blade or the cost of coaching?
You can apply here at this link below for up to a $1300 grant per year to help fund your goals! I have applied and received the grants to help fund my cheer program and only thing they ask in return is that you hold onto your receipts and submit them as well as provide two photos and a short paragraph about what you're doing in your sport. The application is long, and does require some work, but I promise it's worth it!
Whatever your activity level is, there's always something out there for all of us. Get out there, and get moving!
- Jenn