Amy Purdy grew up with a passion for snowboarding, wellness, and travel. At 19, her life took a sudden turn when she was rushed to the hospital with flu-like symptoms and diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis, a bacterial infection. In critical condition, Amy was given less than a 2% chance of survival. After multiple blood transfusions and the removal of her ruptured spleen, doctors amputated both of her legs below the knee due to lack of circulation. Just before her 21st birthday, she received a kidney transplant from her father. 

Returning to the Mountains 

Rather than letting this life-altering experience limit her, Amy set her sights back on the mountains. With support from CAF, she accessed the specialized equipment and training needed to return to snowboarding—eventually becoming one of the top-ranked athletes in the sport. 

Her competitive career includes two Paralympic Games: 

• 2014 Sochi Paralympics – Bronze medal in snowboarding 

• 2018 PyeongChang Paralympics – Silver medal 

Amy was also the only double-leg amputee competing at the world-class level in snowboarding at that time, breaking barriers for athletes with disabilities on the international stage. 

Beyond Competition 

Amy’s presence has extended far beyond snowboarding. She has performed on Dancing with the Stars, where she brought her athleticism and artistry to national television. She has also shared her story at CAF Galas, helping raise awareness and support for the next generation of athletes with physical disabilities. 

In 2021, she gave back directly by supporting young athletes like Selah Gilbert, a CAF grant recipient learning to run and snowboard with her new prosthetic. Amy’s mentorship and advocacy highlight her commitment to ensuring others have the same opportunities she fought to find. 

A Lasting Impact 

Amy’s journey embodies the mission of CAF: to create access to sport and show what’s possible when barriers are removed. Her medals, performances, and advocacy work are part of a broader story—one where athletes with disabilities are not only competing but thriving at the highest levels. 

Support the Next Generation of Athletes 

Athletes like Amy Purdy prove that sport has the power to transform lives. With every grant awarded, CAF helps cover the costs of training, travel, and adaptive equipment that make competition possible. 

Your support ensures more athletes have the chance to reach their own finish lines—whether on snow, stage, or beyond.