Morgan Stickney was an aspiring Olympic swimmer when a serious injury led to the amputation of her left leg below the knee at 20 years old. Despite the life-changing event, Morgan’s passion for swimming didn’t diminish. In fact, she jumped back into the pool just three months after her amputation and became a national champion in two events.
Morgan’s journey took another shocking turn when she lost her remaining leg to a rare vascular disease at 22 years old. Encouraged by her doctor, Morgan started swimming again as part of her recovery. To her surprise, she not only returned to her previous form but excelled. The postponement of the Tokyo 2021 Paralympic Games gave her a chance to compete, where she won two gold medals, a tremendous achievement just a year after becoming a bilateral amputee.
After trying different prosthetic devices, Morgan found that Fillauer’s AllPro feet were perfect for her needs. “The AllPro feet are so great. When I first tried them, I didn’t want to give them back,” she said. Morgan has been using the same AllPro feet for almost five years now, appreciating their shock absorption and how they help her conserve energy.
As a decorated Paralympian, Morgan is optimistic about the increasing visibility around Paralympic sports but acknowledges that there’s still a long way to go. She noted the significant media coverage at the Paris Games compared to previous events and believes these are steps in the right direction. Her advice to young people is to dive into sports with big dreams and embrace the valuable lessons along the way.
As she prepares for future competitions and her academic pursuits in public health, Morgan continues to live each day to the fullest, appreciating the ability to pursue her passions. Despite spending significant time in the hospital for ongoing treatment, Morgan’s spirit remains unbroken. Her journey is not just about overcoming personal adversity but also about inspiring others to see the potential in themselves, regardless of the challenges they face. With her eyes firmly set on competing in the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics, Morgan’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination that define true champions.
