No Limits, Just Life: Mercy’s Story of Freedom and Strength
As an international student at Syracuse University, Mercy found herself in a community that embraced difference and provided a sense of belonging she hadn’t experienced before.
“I saw people with disabilities everywhere—people using wheelchairs, students with different learning disabilities. I didn’t feel alone anymore.”
That same sense of welcome and support continued when she began working with Syracuse Prosthetic, where she had access to high-quality prosthetic care and a team that truly supported her.
A Turning Point in Confidence
One of Mercy’s defining moments came when she made the personal decision to remove the cosmetic cover from her prosthetic leg. For a long time, she had worn long pants even in sweltering summers to avoid stares. But one day, she decided she was done hiding.
“I just stopped covering my prosthetic leg and showed it to everyone. It was a way to embrace who I am. Being disabled doesn’t mean you’re unable—it just means you live a different way.”
Mercy’s openness became an inspiration for others. “I started meeting more people with disabilities who said, ‘Oh my goodness, I feel the same.’ It’s powerful to realize you’re not alone.”
A Life-Changing Partnership
It was during her time in Syracuse that Mercy realized her old prosthetic leg no longer met her needs. Loose and uncomfortable, it limited her ability to move confidently and safely. “I Googled ‘Syracuse prosthetics’ and that’s how I found the Syracuse Prosthetic & Orthotic Center.”
From her very first visit, she noticed a difference. “Everyone was so friendly and supportive. The facility was truly accessible, with automatic doors and curb cuts. But more than that, the team truly cares about me.”
Mercy found a team that worked closely with her at Syracuse Prosthetics. “Keith, my prosthetist, took the time to understand what I wanted to do—boxing, rock climbing, hiking—and designed a leg that would support my lifestyle.”
After undergoing surgery to remove a painful bone spur, Mercy was ready for her third prosthetic leg—the most advanced and comfortable one she’d ever had. “It fit so well. The first day I got it, I went straight to the gym. I had been on crutches for months, and it felt amazing to move again.”
Living Life Fully
Now, Mercy boxes three times a week with the SU Boxing Club and has even taken up rock climbing—scaling a 35-meter rock on just her second outing. She loves the challenge, the freedom, and the strength she feels in her body. “Everything was worth it, even the pain of recovery. My new leg gave me the chance to do things I never thought possible.”
Still, like many prosthetic users, summer brings its challenges. “The socket gets hot and humid, so I take short breaks when I can—even if it’s just ten minutes during lunch. I always wear skirts or loose pants so I can take the leg off when I need to.”
Advice for Others on the Journey
Mercy’s advice to anyone new to prosthetics or navigating life with a disability?
“Be patient—with your body and your mind. Every small step matters. And trust your prosthetist. Give them your feedback—they want to help you get the perfect leg. It’s a collaboration between you, your prosthetist, and your prosthetic leg.”
Mercy’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and rediscovery. It’s also a powerful reminder of what’s possible when care is supportive, collaborative, and grounded in listening.
As she continues her studies at Syracuse University and embraces every new adventure, Mercy carries her identity—and her prosthetic leg—with pride.Supporting Adaptive Athletes
The Challenged Champions initiative provides essential resources such as prosthetic limbs for athletes with physical disabilities. By participating in the tournament, donors and sponsors help break down barriers, enabling these athletes to compete and thrive in their chosen sports.
