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My name is Zebidiah Pfenning and I am 13 years old. I am in 8th grade. I was recently chosen to be a part of Adaptive Sports USA's team to go to IWAS (International Wheelchair & Amputee Sports) in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand this Feb.

This Aug began my 5th year of running competitively in track and field on a national level. My running started when I was given the opportunity to receive a running leg from Amputee Blade Runners when I was in 2nd grade. I am a left leg amputee and couldn't run in a prosthetic leg without it flying off until that gift. When I was 8 Turnstone in Ft. Wayne found me and my siblings (who also have disabilities) a track and field coach and we became their track and field team. In my 1st year, I set 3 national records at Jr. Nationals. My 2nd year was rough for me. Our team was merged with Black Hawk Christian Middle school so we could be included in regular school sports. In the last 2 years, I have overcome my insecurities, and have worked really hard. I continue to break and set national records, and I am able to keep up and beat able-bodied peers in local track meets. I am accomplishing my short term goals to meet my main goal. To become a member of the US track and field team and go to the Paralympics. Now that I have made the team go to IWAS in Thailand, getting to the trials to make the Paralympic team in June is something I will be able to do. It is now possible to make it to the Olympics in Tokyo, or at least try my very best.

To go to Thailand I need the support of my community. All athletes must fund their own way. I work really hard in school and train for many hours a day to be the best I can be to represent our community, state, and country. My parents and family have put everything they have into getting me this far and now I am reaching out to you for your help to compete on the world stage and show others that disability is only a word. I hope you will consider helping me.

Thank you.
Zebidiah Pfenning