Dan Kosick
At age 15, immediately following my sophomore football season, I had an unusual pain in my ankle. A diagnosis revealed that I had a cancerous tumor in my right leg. My best bet was to have my leg amputated above the knee and go through precautionary chemotherapy.
Through my journey as a cancer survivor and amputee, I have gained a sense of confidence in who I am. After getting my first prosthetic leg I learned how to walk and eventually run. Today when setting goals I always make an effort to be a better person, regardless of whether or not I succeeded.
I rejoined my high school swim team, became the starting varsity lacrosse goalie. During this time I got into alpine ski racing and, at 18, became a member of the U.S. Disabled Alpine Ski Team. In 1998 and 2002 I competed in the Winter Paralympics, proudly representing my country as one of the top five disabled male ski racers in my class.
“I am thankful for the many individuals and organizations have supported me throughout my journey.”
Looking Forward
Today, I am 38 years old, a school social worker and am married to my high school sweetheart. I continue to coach lacrosse and swim and participate in events such as the Tough Mudder. Being a disabled athlete allows me to push my personal limits and show my two daughters what their dad, a cancer survivor and amputee, can do.
I am thankful for the many individuals and organizations have supported me throughout my journey. If it was not for their support, I would not have the successes that I have had.
One event in particular, Paige’s Butterfly Run has supported me in my journey most recently. With their support, I’ve been able to continue to set my goals, work hard and achieve even more success. Thank you Paige’s Butterfly Run for your support and helping me to live life to the fullest as a cancer survivor.
