At just 10 years old, Breezy Bochenek faced one of the toughest decisions of her life. Diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer, she chose to amputate her leg in order to survive. But what started as a life-saving choice became the first step in a powerful journey of resilience, athleticism, and finding her place in the world. Through the support of CAF, Breezy transformed from a young girl navigating life with a prosthetic into a role model, IRONMAN triathlete, vocalist, and mentor for the next generation of athletes.

A Life-Changing Diagnosis and a Brave Choice

Breezy was a competitive, soccer-playing kid when her world changed. Cancer treatment was physically and emotionally grueling, but it was her decision to amputate—empowered by the example of CAF Ambassador Sarah Reinertsen—that would define her path forward.

After surgery, Breezy had to relearn how to walk, and then how to run. She faced the added challenge of returning to middle school as a young amputee, feeling isolated from her peers and unsure of what her future as an athlete would look like.

Rediscovering Sport Through CAF

Everything shifted when Breezy was introduced to CAF. She received a grant for a running prosthetic and was invited to attend CAF’s Community Weekend and San Diego Triathlon Challenge (SDTC).

For the first time since her diagnosis, Breezy felt like herself again.

Building Friendships and Finding Belonging

At SDTC, Breezy met other young amputees and athletes with physical challenges—many of whom have now become lifelong friends. Together, they swam, biked, and ran. They shared stories, celebrated victories, and supported each other through setbacks.

“It was the first place I really felt like I belonged,” Breezy said. “These kids got me. They understood everything I had gone through.”

From Athlete to Mentor

With the support of CAF, Breezy’s confidence and athletic goals grew. Over the years, she completed six triathlons, hiked Half Dome in Yosemite, and became a CrossFit enthusiast. In 2023, she and her dad completed their first IRONMAN 70.3, and they’re now training together for a full IRONMAN.

Sharing Her Talents Beyond Sport

Breezy’s impact extends far beyond athletics. She’s a talented vocalist who has performed at multiple CAF events, shared the stage with Switchfoot at their annual BRO-AM surf event, and sang at The Masonic in San Francisco. She also gave a TED Talk in La Jolla, where she spoke about identity, resilience, and the power of community.

Paying It Forward

As Breezy grew up, so did her role in the CAF community. She became a mentor to younger athletes—just as Sarah Reinertsen once was to her. Whether she’s helping at a swim clinic, cheering on kids at the track, or offering advice before their first race, Breezy leads with empathy and encouragement.

“The little girls who come to their first clinic wide-eyed and nervous—I see myself in them,” she said. “Now I get to tell them, ‘You belong here. You’re going to do amazing things.’”

CAF Community Weekend: A Homecoming

Each October, Breezy returns to La Jolla for CAF Community Weekend—a time to reconnect with friends, mentor young athletes, and compete alongside her dad. For Breezy, it’s more than a race. It’s a celebration of how far she’s come and the community that helped her get there.

CAF didn’t just help Breezy walk again. It helped her grow into the athlete, artist, and leader she is today.

Join Us This Fall

CAF’s San Diego Triathlon Challenge fueled by Toyota returns to La Jolla Cove on October 26, 2025. Come experience the same support and inspiration that helped shape Breezy’s journey. Whether you’re an athlete, supporter, volunteer, or spectator—there’s a place for you here.