As you may or may not know, I chose to have my right foot amputated below the knee following six years of operations and painkillers after a botched foot and ankle reconstruction following on from Club Foot complications. I’m writing this just after my one year “ampuversay” and at the end of that year find myself training with the GB Parasnowboard Team and on the GB Paratriathlon Talent Squad. To read more about my background and how I ended up here, (or for a laugh at my adventures over the first year of my life with a fake leg) check out my blog – www.onelegdontcare.wordpress.com
To keep up to date on social media you can follow me on instagram https://instagram.com/cassie.cava/ and twitter https://www.twitter.com/onelegdontcare
This year I am not funded as I am a newcomer to both sports due to the recentness of my amputation, so to follow my dream, I am having to raise the money myself. Whilst I work three jobs (in a school, nannying and babysitting) this is not enough to allow me to train and compete this year at a level that will enable me to fulfill my potential, so I need some support. My Paratriathlon category is not included in the Rio 2016 paralympics, so my goals for the upcoming season are to compete and medal at world level. My ultimate goal for snowboarding is gold at the 2018 paralympics in Pyeongchang and whilst that is just two years away and I have my work cut out, my coaches believe that getting there is doable. In return for you contributing and helping me out, I promise that I will do everything it takes to become the best and there will be no one out there working harder than I am. I will also keep you updated through my blog of my successes and struggles over the forthcoming snowboarding and triathlon seasons, and if you’re keen I would be delighted to share tales of my journey over cups of tea!
First time back on snow, 3 months post ampuation
I am the only female parasnowboarder in team GB and am passionate about getting more women and girls, particularly those with a disability, involved in sport. Following on from my involvement with the ThisGirlCan campaign earlier this year, I’ve had the opportunity to give talks to a variety of people about adversity, challenges and determination, and if you pledge I would be delighted to repay the favour somewhat by talking to or visit schools or workplaces that you may have connections with, if people could benefit from my experiences. (Or if you are unable to pledge please still get in touch if I could help you out in anyway.)
Money raised will go towards my costs for the next 12 months, which will enable me to fulfill my potential for development over the next year. This includes coaching costs, travel to competitions and training camps, accomodation, GB kit for both sports and essential consumables such as tyres and bike maintenance equipment; then specifically for snowboarding – lift passes, specialist protective equipment and travel equipment. Triathlon costs include a TT bike, bike box rental for international events, a better quality wetsuit (the hole in my current one slows me down!), entry fees into events and travel costs.
If you are looking to contribute as part of a company or organisation, I am very happy to work alongside you to promote your brand and give something back – please get in touch.
This is an incredibily exciting time and after the ongoing struggles over the last six years it feels totally sureal. With your help I hope to go on to achieve at the highest level and do so with a smile, some kindness and providing a little inspiration along the way!
Thank you for reading.
Cassie
PS – I won’t forget you when I start medalling internationally and you will be some of the first people to see those paralympic medals!