Prosthetic Running Leg for Erick

Erick Aleman is an 11th grader on the Rio Mesa High School Cross Country and Track & Field teams who was born with Hanhart Syndrome, which is characterized as the incomplete development of limbs and/or hands and fingers. This condition affects all of Erick's upper and lower limbs, primarily, his left leg.

Since middle school, Erick has competed in school and CIF-sanctioned meets with other athletes who do not have disabilities and has impressively finished near the middle of the pack in most events. What makes this feat more impressive, is the fact that Erick has done this all with a prosthetic leg designed for walking...not running. A walking prosthetic does not provide near the mobility and energy return that a running prosthetic does, which can better mimic the natural running motion and energy return.

In early July 2023, Erick first competed in the Angel City Games Track Meet, an event for para-athletes in which he took 1st place in the 200m, 400m, 800m and 2nd in the 100m in his classification...all with his walking prosthetic.

After seeing his success, confidence, and passion in para-athletics, our goal became to purchase a prosthetic designed for running (commonly known as a "blade") for Erick. This would allow him to compete at his best not only in high school events but also in para-athletics moving forward.

As Erick further explores the world of para-athletics, a running prosthetic has the potential to take Erick to other meets around the country, and give a realistic opportunity to break national records. As his Track and Cross Country coach for over 2 years now, I can genuinely say that Erick is one of the hardest-working young men I have seen. Erick never complains or has excuses. He truly has a natural gift for running, and a running prosthetic would allow him to compete on an equitable level, and would empower him to reach his full potential as an athlete and as a human being.

Thank you for your donations and for supporting Erick to reach his dreams.

-Garrett Reynolds

Erick's Track & Cross Country Coach