There are so many nonprofits doing good work on behalf of amputees that it seems impossible to keep track of them all. But we’re going to try anyway. Every week we’ll highlight one organization or person that’s out there trying to make life better for amputees. This week’s Worthy Cause: The Born to Run Foundation.
Name: Born to Run Foundation
Founder: The first thing Noelle Lambert wanted to know after losing her left leg in a 2016 moped accident was whether she still had a spot on her college lacrosse team. Lambert was eventually able to return to action for the University of Massachusetts-Lowell, thanks in part to a Challenged Athletes Foundation grant that enabled her to acquire a running blade. After graduating in 2019, Lambert established the Born to Run Foundation to help other young amputee athletes. She also emerged as a Paralympic medal contender in track and field, setting a U.S. record in the 100 meter dash last November. Last week Lambert was named a finalist in L’Oreal’s annual Women of Worth competition. (You can cast your vote for Lambert at the Women of Worth website.)
What they do: Help amputees obtain specialized prosthetic devices that enable them to participate in sports.
Who they serve: Young amputees who are active in athletics and outdoor recreation.
In Lambert’s own words: “I often say that my accident was the best thing that ever happened to me, as it has made me a better athlete, a better teammate, a better daughter, a better friend, and has given me the opportunity to help other young amputees see an active future for themselves. . . . I received so many helping hands from so many different people throughout my entire journey. After learning the costs of prosthetics and how insurance companies will only cover your everyday prosthetic, it inspired me to start my own foundation to give back to others.”
Make a donation: https://theborntorunfoundation.org/product/born-to-run-donation/
Connect with the Born to Run Foundation: On Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Other Worthy Causes:
Move for Jenn Foundation
Jordan Thomas Foundation
Limbitless Solutions
Forrest Stump
Penta Prosthetics
Ayúdame3D
Less Leg More Heart
Looking for the Helpers (July/August 2020 issue of Amplitude)