Amputee Association of NSW

This is Jade’s story from AMP Camp... “Two years ago I was hit by a train which resulted in me losing both my legs below the knee. Where do I begin… there is so much I’d like to say, though I’ll try to keep it short (like me!). Athletics was a dream a year ago, almost fictional. I survived a traumatic accident and was dealing with healing, recovery, grief, adjusting to foreign legs and also your regular teenage dramas. The future seemed scary and uncertain. I didn’t truly believe in myself or know myself for that matter... When I remember that I am not alone and there are always people willing to help - the world doesn't seem so scary... I am so thankful for those that have helped me get back on my feet! Thank you to my family, for their constant support and unconditional love! That includes my Amp Camp family, for all the opportunities that they have provided other campers and I with. The whole concept of the camp is brilliant and I am happy to be a part of something so great! Also a huge thank you to The Red Dust Heelers family for all they have done for me. Last year was my first camp. At Amp camp I was able to try out a more suitable everyday foot style and returning to camp this year I had the chance of trying running blades. I'd also like to thank The Red Dust Heelers for all of their support and the opportunities that they have provided me. In particular, Kathleen O’Kelly Kennedy a Paralympian, mentor, friend and sister and the lady who introduced me to the Amp camp family. I am now currently doing athletic training with Para-athletic coach, Mark Banister and 3 other para-athletes. I am running on everyday legs (Ossur VaryXC Flex feet). They enable me to walk, run, jump – you name it. However, to run at an elite level, I’ll need a pair of blades… I am looking forward to an Ossur clinic in Sydney at the end of next month and hope to gain sponsorship for blades, similar to the ones I tried at Amp Camp in this following video." WATCH to see Jade run on blades for the very first time! https://vimeo.com/164939637