Rebecca

How did you get involved with Achilles?

I had heard about Achilles for years, especially the Achilles triathlon training camp. I had heard about a footballer from college who had lost his leg in a motorcycle accident and then continued to exercise and go to the Achilles training camp. I just kept on hearing emotional stories like that one from Achilles, and felt compelled to join. I eventually got involved by a friend bringing me to the Saturday workout. I was paired with Francesco, and it was only his second time running after becoming blind. I was hooked. I bonded with Francesco really well, and we began to run together even outside of Achilles.  

What is the biggest challenge in your role with Achilles?

So, I am a long time volunteer for Achilles. I’ve been volunteering for around ten years now. I’d say that my biggest challenge in my role is recruiting more athletes for achilles. I’m always trying to find more ways to reach people with disabilities and let them know that achilles is around. It’s really just getting the word out that’s so difficult. Many people just don’t know that achilles is out there. 

If, hypothetically, you were to get additional funding for Achilles, where do you think that money would be best put to use?

It would be great to fund our athletes who want to go on races in other states. Race entry fees and transportation to races can be really expensive, and so we’re always trying to get funding for that. Many athletes with disabilities don’t have the financial ability to travel as much as they would like to, and so getting funding for that would mean so much to them. 

Do you have a favorite Achilles moment, either a run or inspirational experience with an athlete?

Yes, in fact I have two. Okay, so, my very first race with Francesco was the Hope and Possibility race in June, and watching Francesco take off in the race and finish his race was so inspirational, especially considering that two months earlier he didn’t even know that he could run blind. Seeing how far he had come in such a little amount of time was so amazing. His journey is so special. 

With all of your years of experience, do you have any advice for people who are considering becoming either an Achilles athlete or Achilles guide?

I would say that there’s never going to be a perfect time to start, but that you don’t have to commit to every single week. If you come one time, and you’re going to want to come back. I guarantee that if you meet an athlete, you will just get hooked and want to come back the next week.