Well this should be fun!  That’s right, I am the new owner of an Ossur Nike Running Blade.  So how did to come to be?  Was I a runner prior to my amputation?  Not really.  My running life started with my matriculation into Virginia Military Institute and ended when I left the military.  So why the running blade and why now?

The months following my accident and amputation, I soon discovered that the better shape I am in, the easier it is for me to function as a person with limb loss.  An overall state of better health would benefit anyone but this is particularly true for lower limb amputees.  A strong core and carrying less weight are just two of the benefits of leading a healthier lifestyle.  Up to this point, I have been managing my fitness with intermittent fasting and cycling.  I thoroughly enjoy cycling and on one of my cycling events, a young lady approached me and asked if I had heard about the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF).  I had researched them before but thought that I would be taking grants away from those who could benefit from one more then I.  She put me in touch with a gentleman who was deeply involved in the CAF and he assured me that I would not be taking from someone who had a greater need.  So I applied and was approved for the grant.

Having the ability to run as an amputee is important.  There are certain situations in life where you may need to run, where getting from one point to another quickly is needed.  In addition, running will allow me to add another tool to my fitness tool belt.  It will no doubt take some practice and getting use to as the running blade is like nothing I have felt before; it’s like constantly standing on your tippy toes!  However, just like everything else I have had to do since my amputation, I will adapt and overcome.  Hey, maybe with a little practice, there will be a 5k or two in my future.