Brooklyn Gossard’s story begins with a sudden and unexpected medical crisis. At just 15 months old, she developed acute idiopathic transverse myelitis, an autoimmune disorder that attacked her spinal cord. Within 48 hours she went from standing with her twin sister, Bella, to losing all movement below her chest. For a time, she was considered quadriplegic. 

Doctors told her parents she would never walk again. But with intensive treatments, hospital stays, and thousands of hours of physical therapy, Brooklyn regained the use of her upper body. What could have been a closed door instead became the beginning of her journey into sport. 

Discovering Adaptive Sports 

Brooklyn’s first exposure to adaptive sports came through Boise Parks and Recreation’s Youth Adaptive Sports Camp, where she quickly discovered the joy of competition and movement. It wasn’t long before she was introduced to the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF), where she connected with athletes, coaches, and mentors who opened up even more possibilities. 

CAF provided not only access to clinics in sports like WCMX, sled hockey, and curling but also the equipment that would allow Brooklyn to train seriously. Through CAF Idaho, she received a handcycle—presented to her on stage in San Diego—launching her commitment to triathlon. 

Triathlon Goals and Beyond 

Brooklyn now competes in youth triathlons, using a racing wheelchair for the run, her handcycle for the bike segment, and her own strength in the pool. The finish line is always a celebration, but her goals stretch far beyond a single race. She has set her sights on completing 100 triathlons within two years and dreams of one day becoming a Paralympian. 

Her twin sister Bella, who has not experienced symptoms of the disorder, remains her biggest cheerleader. “She’s way faster than me,” Bella said with a smile. “She can do all the same sports I can, but cooler—with racing chairs and bikes.” 

Family, Community, and Support 

Brooklyn’s confidence reflects the approach of her family, who have worked tirelessly to ensure she has every opportunity to succeed. With the support of CAF Idaho and local organizations like the YMCA, she has been able to try everything from surfing and skiing to tennis and hockey. 

“She has a spark in her eye,” said CAF Idaho Regional Director Jennifer Skeesick. “You can tell she’s a competitor. We want to make sure she has what she needs to be successful.” 

That spirit is clear each time Brooklyn competes, trains, or simply takes on something new. Her family, her teammates, and her community have all played a role—but it’s Brooklyn’s own drive that keeps her pushing forward. 

Supporting the Next Generation of Athletes 

Brooklyn Gossard shows what’s possible when young athletes with physical disabilities are given access to adaptive equipment, mentorship, and a supportive community. With CAF Idaho, she is proving that goals once thought impossible are within reach. 

Help create more opportunities for athletes like Brooklyn by supporting CAF’s work to provide access, equipment, and encouragement through sport.