Abby was just 13 years old when Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM)affected her at the T-11 level, resulting in no motor function or sensation below the level of injury. She competed regularly in soccer and gymnastics until the day she was injured. While facing the mental and physical challenges, she says adaptive sports gave her a “renewed sense of purpose, confidence, and community.”  Wheelchair basketball quickly became her passion, and she’s competed at the collegiate and international levels as a member of the U25 team and is also a member of the USA Disabled Water Ski Team.

In addition to her studies, Abby has interned with Southern Arizona Adaptive Sports (SAAS) and the Adaptive Sports in Schools (ASIS)program. She has worked to develop and implement adaptive sports curricula for physical education teachers, so that students with disabilities have access to inclusive athletic experiences. She’s also organized training sessions for educators, student-athletes, and community members to increase awareness and participation in adaptive sports. She enjoys being outdoors waterskiing or snow skiing with her family, has a twin brother and likes photography.