Original article written by Ryan Sahlin 

For over 20 years, the partnership between Össur, a global leader in prosthetic technology, and the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) has empowered thousands of amputee athletes to overcome physical challenges and lead active, fulfilling lives. This collaboration uniquely blends state-of-the-art prosthetics with community support, expert coaching, and financial assistance to provide life-changing opportunities for people with limb loss and limb differences. 

A Legacy of Innovation and Empowerment 

Össur’s mission of enabling “life without limitations” aligns perfectly with CAF’s vision of helping athletes with physical challenges access sports and wellness activities. Together, they have distributed over 1,700 advanced sports prosthetics, including running feet and knees designed to enhance performance and mobility. These grants remove the financial barriers that often prevent amputees from participating in athletics, opening doors to new levels of independence and achievement. 

A key component of this partnership is the annual Running & Mobility Clinics held across the United States. These clinics bring together amputees of all ages and skill levels, providing personalized coaching from renowned experts like gait specialist Dr. Robert Gailey and Team USA Paralympians Jamie Brown and Eric McElvenny. Participants receive hands-on guidance to optimize their prosthetic use, improve gait mechanics, and boost confidence. 

Cutting-Edge Prosthetic Technology: The Össur Flex-Run and More 

One of the most innovative products featured in this partnership is the Össur Flex-Run, a prosthetic running foot developed collaboratively by Össur, Nike, and CAF athlete Sarah Reinertsen. The Flex-Run incorporates the Nike Sole, engineered for flexibility and responsiveness, giving athletes the ability to push their limits safely and efficiently. 

This prosthetic technology exemplifies how innovation and athlete feedback combine to create equipment that not only restores mobility but enhances athletic potential. Each prosthesis is custom-fitted with the help of expert prosthetists who work closely with athletes to tailor solutions that fit their unique needs and goals. 

Empowering Stories from 2019 Grant Recipients 

The impact of the Össur and CAF partnership is best seen in the stories of athletes whose lives have been transformed: 

• Harper Fotta, a young ballet dancer born with a congenital limb deficiency, received the Össur Cheetah Explore prosthetic. Her family hopes this grant will improve her mobility, allowing her to enjoy running and participate in team sports like basketball and soccer as she grows. 

• Ed Blumenstock, a 75-year-old triathlete, continues to compete and inspire despite a below-the-knee amputation caused by a biking accident. With his new prosthetic, Ed aims to return to triathlons, skiing, and sailing, living by his mantra, “nothing ventured, nothing gained.” 

• Wendy Belk, an accomplished desert car racer and avid swimmer, suffered an amputation after a racing accident. Unwavering in her spirit, Wendy has taken up triathlon training, surfing, and kiteboarding, aspiring to live a life filled with adventure and inspire others with disabilities. 

These stories showcase the resilience and determination of athletes who receive Össur and CAF grants. Their journeys highlight the importance of access to adaptive equipment and support networks that help them excel. 

The Role of Prosthetists and Community Support 

Behind every successful prosthetic fitting and athletic achievement are the dedicated prosthetists and support teams who ensure each athlete receives the best possible care. Their expertise in customizing prosthetics and ongoing adjustments is critical to maximizing comfort, performance, and safety. 

Moreover, the community created by CAF and Össur—through clinics, events, and athlete networks—provides invaluable encouragement. This network fosters motivation, shared learning, and camaraderie among amputee athletes nationwide. 

Looking Ahead: Continued Commitment to Empowerment 

As the partnership advances, Össur and CAF remain committed to expanding access to adaptive sports equipment and programming. Future plans include increasing the number of prosthetic grants, enhancing clinic offerings, and integrating emerging prosthetic technologies to support an even broader community of athletes. 

This partnership continues to inspire a vision where physical disabilities no longer limit the pursuit of athletic dreams or quality of life.  

Get Involved

Join Össur and the Challenged Athletes Foundation in empowering athletes with limb loss and limb differences. Explore upcoming Running & Mobility Clinics, learn about prosthetic grants, and discover how you can support adaptive sports programs. 

Learn more about CAF’s partnership with Össur and how to apply for grants