As an amputee ski trip veteran, Cody, age 16 of Keller, is looking forward to reconnecting with old friends, making new ones and improving his skiing skills on this year’s trip. Cody was born with tibial hemimelia, a rare condition which resulted in amputations on each leg. As an active high-school athlete, learning to ski allowed Cody to add another sport to his already impressive list of activities.
 
Cody is an avid swimmer. He competes on Keller High School’s varsity swim team, Lakeside Aquatic Club’s swim team and with amputee athletic organizations around the country.
 
When Cody was younger, he often travelled to speak to wounded veterans. Seeing an energetic young man’s positive outlook on life, made them realize they still had the potential for great things even though their circumstances had changed.

“It’s important to give back to the community,” says Cody in reference to his philanthropic efforts. “It lets people to know to stay positive.”  
 
Yesterday, Cody announced that he and 28 other athletes will be representing the United States at the 2018 International Wheelchair & Amputee Sports Federation (IWAS) Youth World Games in Ireland this summer.
 
When asked who he looks up to the most, Cody quickly replied that his parents and swim coaches are who he most admires.
 
“They motivate me and push me to be the best version of myself,” says Cody.

About the Annual Amputee Ski Trip

February 2018 will mark the 37th anniversary of the annual Amputee Ski Trip, held each year at the National Sports Center for the Disabled in Winter Park, Colorado. Fourteen teenage patients with limb differences receive practical recreational therapy, while also having the opportunity to grow, build confidence and bond with others similar to them.