Demonstrating their resiliency, 22 adaptive athletes are part of nearly 1,000 people who will compete in the Gaylord Gauntlet, a 5k obstacle run to raise money for the hospital that has impacted their recovery. The 5k will happen on Saturday, June 24, in Wallingford, Connecticut, and features a blend of wooded trail and open field running with natural and man-made obstacles. This includes a rock wall climb and vine swings according to the event’s webpage. Susan Raff covered the story for Eyewitness News 3.
Chris Pranger was hit by a car while riding his motorcycle and became an above knee amputee after multiple attempts to save his right leg. He decided to participate in the event to prove to himself and others what’s possible post amputation. “It’s about strengthening yourself and being a survivor,” Chris said. Although adaptive athletes Cameron Senna and Gloria Searson are not amputees, they have also benefitted from the support given to them as patients in the hospital’s care.
Having a good team in place and a caring facility is pivotal for patients, especially those navigating a change as life-altering as a recent limb loss, and helps them on a successful path to recovery. This is why the Amputee Coalition’s Hospital Partnership Program exists: to provide patients with the support and educational resources they need from the start. Sharing our expertise, curriculum, and materials can make a difference to amputees in these facilities!
With 116 partner facilities and growing, the Amputee Coalition is seeking to reach all 50 states. If you are interested in learning about the partnership benefits or how to become a hospital partner, check out the program’s webpage for more information.