Jade's Blades

HELP JADE PURSUE HER PARALYMPIC DREAM 

 My daughter Jade was involved in a horrific train accident early in March 2014. Jade is now a bilateral (below knee) amputee. Jade hasn't let this deter her, instead she has turned this tragedy into what we now call a new normal. She would like to train to become an athlete and represent Australia in the Paralympics.. To do this she needs running blades - which start at $15,000.00 each - with additional costs in maintaining the blades and visiting her Prosthetist on the East coast of Australia.

For more of Jades story, please read on.

Since Jade was a child, she has always had a passion for sports. She started out in gymnastics at a young age, participating in state regional championship competitions. She also tried her hand in various sports in primary school - succeeding in all. She was champion girl for consecutive years in swimming and athletics carnivals.

Prior to Jades accident she was part of a netball team and would play season to season. After her accident Jade decided that she would turn her misfortune around and got involved with wheelchair basketball - where she was able to utilise her sports background and ability to excel in the sport.

During Jade's recovery at Royal Perth's rehabilitation centre, the WA Wheelchair Sports organisation came and showed her and other patients what sports were available. Jade was intrigued by Wheelchair Basketball and soon joined the National team 'Western Stars'. Jade has travelled interstate several times for wheelchair basketball competitions with the Western Stars. She also became involved with the Red Dust Heelers Basketball team and did workshops where she shared her story to schools and to community groups.

Jade feels that she has been given a second chance in her life and she wants to become a role model to her peers and to those who are facing adversity or difficulties in life. She wants to show that you can do anything overcome your disability and show the world she has the ability to be able to fulfil your dreams.

Jade's goal is to run in the Paralympics and represent her country; however we cannot afford the blades she needs for running, so we have decided to fundraise money for her. Any donations would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for contribution

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Link to news article: http://m.perthnow.com.au/news/western-australia/perth-teen-jade-richards-says-losing-her-legs-has-given-her-a-second-chance-at-life/story-fnhocxo3-1227195790723?nk=532b5a7c8615a6464fb24fcb3c650e24