Ask Robin Burton, executive director of the Orthotic and Prosthetic Activities Foundation (OPAF), if you are able to participate in the organization’s free sports and recreational programs, and she’ll almost certainly answer with a resounding “Yes!”
But I’m missing parts of all four limbs, I’m so out of shape, or I’m 70 years old, you might argue.
“No problem,” Burton would likely say, pointing out that many quadrilateral amputees, people who are out of shape, and seniors have participated in OPAF’s programs.
In fact, OPAF’s goal is to provide activities that everyone can enjoy in a nurturing, safe, noncompetitive, nonjudgmental environment, regardless of age, level of amputation, other disability, or level of sports experience. OPAF offers its introductory events, which are called First Clinics, in tennis, swimming, scuba diving, dancing, rowing, horseback riding, rock climbing, and cycling, in addition to golfing, which is a program of the National Amputee Golf Association. If participants show potential as high- level athletes, OPAF will tell them about opportunities in competitive sports. OPAF plans to add three more First Clinics in 2015: First Safeguard, First Dash, and First Tri.
In addition to the wide variety of activities offered by OPAF, another important aspect of the First Clinics is that they are offered throughout the country from time to time, so it’s likely that you’ll be able to attend one near you.
“As a left below-knee amputee due to complications from spina bifida, I had never experienced adaptive sports until participating with OPAF,” says John Kinder, who lives in South Carolina where OPAF held its first adaptive cycling event in late 2014. “First Cycle was a wonderful experience and a chance for cyclists and paracyclists to enjoy cycling together in the most unique ways. It was a moment I’ll never forget. I’m looking forward to more First Clinics in our area!”
For amputees who would like to participate in some type of sports or recreation and enjoy social time with other amputees, OPAF is a good resource.
“We try to take away all of the reasons for people not to get involved,” Burton says. “We want you to have the opportunity to try whatever you want to try. Come on out, and let’s get you moving!”
For more information about how to get involved with OPAF, and to view its event schedule, visit www.opafonline.org.
In addition to OPAF, other organizations may offer sports and recreational activities in your area. To learn about such opportunities, visit the Resources and Calendar sections on the Amplitude website at livingwithamplitude.com.
