Finding your people: why amputee events matter

I recently attended another incredible LimbPower Games, and it reminded me just how powerful these events truly are. As someone born with a limb difference, I only discovered the amputee community in 2019 when I joined a team of amputees to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. Until then, I'd never been around people who get it. I can't express how enlightening it is when you finally find your people — those who understand your challenges, your strengths, and your unique journey.

The LimbPower Games, led by Kiera Roche — CEO of the UK-based charity LimbPower — is more than just a sports event. It's a celebration of inclusion, movement and possibility. Held at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the birthplace of the Paralympics, it's the largest gathering of amputees in the UK. It brings together people from all walks of life to try adaptive sports in a safe, supportive and seriously fun environment.

So, what's it all about? Opportunity. Confidence. Connection. The Games offer a chance to try everything — with qualified instructors and in a fully accessible setting — from e-trikes and wheelchair basketball to javelin, long jump, athletics, canoeing, boxing and badminton. And now, amputee football is officially part of the programme for 2026! It's a weekend packed with discovery — not just of new sports, but of what you're truly capable of.

This year, I met an incredible young person called Bel. She's just three months post-amputation but had played football for 10 years before that. She was introduced to me because I play amputee football — and before that moment, she hadn't even heard the sport existed. Watching her light up as she kicked a ball again, realising she could still play the game she loves as an amputee, was honestly magical. That joy, that spark and the hope that comes with it — that's exactly why these events matter.

Amputees learn from one another. We often don't realise how our own stories inspire those just starting out on their journey — how we can help give them the confidence to live vibrant, fulfilling lives, just like before.

The LimbPower Games have helped the sporting careers of many future Paralympians. But it's not just about discovering elite performance — it's about community. It's about cheering each other on, sharing stories and reminding one another that you're never alone. After a full day of sporting and fitness activities, everyone comes together in the evening to relax, connect and be themselves — laughing, chatting and building bonds that reach far beyond the event.

As more pathways into adaptive fitness and sports continue to open up, events like the LimbPower Games are truly changing lives. They give amputees the chance to rebuild confidence, explore new passions and — most importantly — feel seen, supported, and celebrated.

To discover amputee events near you, start by searching what's happening in your region. Globally, Ottobock hosts running clinics with Paralympic champion Heinrich Popow and ski clinics in various countries, and you can read my review (here). Many brilliant organisations are also available to support you.

If you're based in the UK — or don't mind travelling to this fantastic annual event — I really hope to see you at the next LimbPower Games!