A Champion Among Us: Meet Jessica Long

A Champion Among Us: Meet Jessica Long Quitting has never been an option for Jessica Long. Holding 34 U.S. swimming records, 17 Pan-American records, 2 Paralympic records, 14 world records, 3 gold Paralympic medals, and 9 gold world championship medals are only some of the accomplishments of this young swimmer.
Home ACA Names New Editor and Senior Editor Knoxville, TN. -- Rick Bowers and Bill Dupes, employees in the Publications Department of the Amputee Coalition of America (ACA), have been promoted to editor and senior editor, respectively. Shark-Attack Survivor Accepts National “Free Spirit” Honor Bethany Hamilton, a shark-attack survivor who overcame the loss of her left arm to return to the sport of surfing, has been acclaimed as a 2004 Free Spirit honoree. “The Best Thing in the World” Raised in a small, supportive community, Jaymie Kraus didn’t learn about the adversities and opportunities of people with limb differences until she became an adult Bidding Demonstration: Setting the Record Straight for Prosthetic Consumers Do's and Don'ts of A Legislative Visit ADVOCACY NEWS: Licensure vs. Certification: How It Can Affect You! The Power of Peers This article looks at the importance of peers in providing guidance and emotional support when faced with an amputation. Peer Visitor Support of Recent U.S. Military Amputees This article takes a look at the peer visitation program in place at the Amputee Center at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Facing Amputation Surgery: The Value of Peer Contact This article talks about the value of peer support for amputees. Funding Raising for Your Support Group This fact sheet discusses support group member involvement in fundraising. Ideas for different types of fundraisers are included as well. Starting a Support Group: The Basics Starting a support group is a responsibility, a challenge, and a very meaningful experience. This fact sheet offers a listing of some basic steps needed to start a support group. Steps were compiled from successful support groups and organizations all ove Understanding ACA's Peer Network This fact sheet offers an explanation of ACA's national peer network. Details covered include the network's purpose and how it works, as well as the required training for peer visitors. Giving Back - Couples Who Peer Visit This article takes a brief look at couples that do peer visitation as part of the Amputee Coalition of America's National Peer Network. When Your Support Group Needs Support This article takes a brief look at resources for support groups. You Don't Have to Deal With Amputation Alone This article takes a brief look at the Amputee Coalition of America's National Peer Network. Peer Contact for Parents of Children with Congenital Amputation Karen Neimanas discusses the role of peer visitor when parents are confronted with the birth of a child with a congenital limb difference. Notes from the medical director: first and foremost, listen!: lessons learned from mentors and peer visitors Doug Smith, ACA Medical Director, discusses the important role that mentors can play in our lives and how a peer visitor can become a mentor. Communicator: Newsletter for amputee support group leaders This site contains links to both HTML and PDF versions of the Communicator newsletter published for amputee support group leaders. On-line communication resources for those with limb loss Resources for amputees or family members of amputees who would like to communicate with other amputees via Internet bulletin boards or e-mail lists. Advocating For Your Child ACA Announces New Publication for Parents The Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) is proud to announce the release of Expectations: Parenting Children and Teens With Limb Differences. This 36-page resource guide addresses some of the issues parents face after giving birth to a baby with a limb dif Cancer Was The Easy Part ACA Names New Staff Writer ACA announces the appointment of Scott McNutt as staff writer. A Circle of Friends - The Power of Peer Support The Prosthesis and Its Components - Choices, Choices and More Choices When to Help Your Child and When to Let Go A Message From the President & CEO Physical Activity Can Reduce Secondary Conditions in Youths With Limb Differences Building a Positive Body Image Prostheses for Children & Teens With Limb Differences - Issues and Expectations Questions to Ask Your Child's Doctor Resources Follow the Yellow Brick Road - Assistance Sources for Children and Teens With Limb Differences Enrichment Beyond Words M-STAR Seeks Donations for Operation Compassion The Michigan Society To Advance Rehabilitation, Inc. (M-STAR) is seeking used lower-limb components and funds to transport prostheses, equipment and a health team to Mexico in September. ACA’s LLEAP Curriculum Now Available as Free Download The Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) is proud to announce the digitization of the Limb Loss Education & Awareness Program (LLEAP) for use as a teaching tool. ACA’s LLEAP Curriculum Now Available as Free Download The Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) is proud to announce the digitization of the Limb Loss Education & Awareness Program (LLEAP) for use as a teaching tool. The Road to Change In 2003, I set out on a journey to reclaim the life that I once had, to gain strength in body, mind, and spirit, and to dedicate my life to serve others in need. This journey began with the support of my family following my accident and continued in June Beijing 2008: On a Row Boat to China The International Paralympic Committee met in April this year to decide on important issues at hand. One of those issues was the inclusion of rowing as a Paralympic sport. I was so happy and excited when I learned that rowing had finally become part of th A Winning Attitude: A Young Athlete Benefits From ASPIRE's Adaptive Ski Clinic ASPIRE's week long ski clinic motivates children with amputations and limb differences. Out of Necessity: Children’s Book Author Overcomes Biggest Challenge of All Children's book author, Ben Herosian, turns life's most difficult lessons into inspirational and educational stories. Kids and Teens Get Boost from 6th Annual ACA Youth Camp The 2006 ACA Youth Camp is a success. Campers participated in fun activities and made lots of new friends. Inner Wheel Foundation’s Myoelectric Limb Project Lends a Hand to Those in Need Andres Alvarez Vasquez of California was born without his right hand, but that hasn’t slowed this active 22-year-old down a bit. At the age of 9, Andres was the first recipient of a myoelectric limb from Inner Wheel Foundation Inc.’s Myoelectric Limb Proj Demonstrating Disability Awareness at a Young Age Annie Garafolo, a member of Helping Hands Foundation, explains what it's like living with a disability to a 5th grade class. Author Emily Rapp Speaks About Growing Up as a Poster Child Emily Rapp writes about her experiences growing up with limb loss in her recently published memoir, Poster Child, by Bloomsbury Press. Want to be Another Tiger Woods or Casey Martin? The Eastern Amputee Golf Association (EAGA) offers young amputees the opportunity to learn to play golf through the free National Amputee Golf Association (NAGA) "First Swing/Learn to Golf" clinic program. A Lifetime of Memories! Take a quick look at the 2007 ACA Youth Camp! Advice from Other Kids & Teens Get some advice from other young amputees. Read what they have to say about teasing, being self-conscious, prostheses, sports & recreation and more. Teen Writes Newsletter for Young Amputees Meet Theresa, a 14-year-old from California. Theresa is the creator of an interactive newsletter for young amputees. The Making of a Champion Sean is an inspiring young man. Read about his recent travels and successes. Disc Golf for Fun and Fitness If you’re looking for a way to get in shape or stay that way while enjoying the great outdoors, disc golf may be the sport for you. Camp Brings Joy to Young Amputees! This was a banner year for the Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) Youth Camp,held July 20-24. Sixty-three campers flew in from 30 different states to have the time of their lives. Street Beat Masters Hawaii Dance Experience Read about Adrienne's Hip Hop Dance experienced in Hawaii. A Trip of a Lifetime In September, Roderick Sewell went on the trip of a lifetime. Learn about Roderick's National Paralympic Academy experience at the Paralympic Games in China. Two Amputee Coalition campers attend the Paralympics in China In September, two of our campers received the opportunity of a lifetime. They were selected to take part in the 2008 Paralympic Academy. This year the academy was held in conjunction with the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing, China. Growing Up With Limb Loss Men and women, young and old, all suffer the effects of amputation, including its physical and emotional scars. Adapting successfully to life with limb loss depends not just on one’s inner resolve or outward physical strength – sometimes it’s a matter Ohio Willow Wood Becomes Amputee Coalition of America’s Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp Sponsor The Amputee Coalition of America is proud to recognize the longstanding commitment and support of Ohio Willow Wood (OWW) as a Lodestone Sponsor of the Amputee Coalition of America’s Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp for 2010. Ohio Willow Wood Becomes Amputee Coalition of America’s Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp Sponsor The Amputee Coalition of America is proud to recognize the longstanding commitment and support of Ohio Willow Wood (OWW) as a Lodestone Sponsor of the Amputee Coalition of America’s Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp for 2010. The Sky’s the Limit for Airborne Amputees, Wounded Warriors and ACA Members The Sky’s the Limit for Airborne Amputees, Wounded Warriors and ACA Members Bill Could Help Fund Prosthetics Dan Ignaszewski, of the nonprofit advocacy group Amputee Coalition of America, said most insurance policies cover only the first $2,500 of the cost for prosthetic devices because they are classified as "durable medical equipment," along with canes and whe Bill Could Help Fund Prosthetics Dan Ignaszewski, of the nonprofit advocacy group Amputee Coalition of America, said most insurance policies cover only the first $2,500 of the cost for prosthetic devices because they are classified as "durable medical equipment," along with canes and whe Kendra Calhoun, President & CEO of Amputee Coalition of America, Appointed to Medicare Advisory Committee Calhoun to serve as Patient Advocate. Kendra Calhoun, President & CEO of Amputee Coalition of America, Appointed to Medicare Advisory Committee Calhoun to serve as Patient Advocate. Celebrating 10 Years of Success Celebrating 10 Years of Success TSA Staff Lack Training, Respect in Screening Amputees In an ACA press release today, a survey of 7,300 amputees around the country revealed instances of "inconsistent, unfair, abusive and often embarrassing screenings." Fireworks Accidents Cause Amputations and Third-Degree Burns The Amputee Coalition of America urges families to make sure their children are properly supervised and all instructions followed when using fireworks this Fourth of July. Fireworks Accidents Cause Amputations and Third-Degree Burns The Amputee Coalition of America urges families to make sure their children are properly supervised and all instructions followed when using fireworks this Fourth of July. TSA Airport Security Screeners Disregard Procedures, Safety and Respect for Amputees, According to Amputee Coalition of America Survey Survey Results Show Lack of Awareness for Disability Population TSA Airport Security Screeners Disregard Procedures, Safety and Respect for Amputees, According to Amputee Coalition of America Survey Survey Results Show Lack of Awareness for Disability Population Knoxville-based amputee group questions TSA The Knoxville-based Amputee Coalition of America says amputees are being mistreated at airport security checkpoints across the nation. Convening of Limb Loss Task Force Is a Step Toward Fulfilling the Amputee Coalition’s 2015 Five Year Plan ACA Calls for Improved Screening Procedures for TSA ACA Calls for Improved Screening Procedures for TSA Amputee Coalition of America’s Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp Reaches Goal of 100 Campers Amputee Coalition of America’s Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp Reaches Goal of 100 Campers Amputee Coalition of America’s Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp Reaches Goal of 100 Campers Dumfries Teen's Determination Outweighs Loss of Limb Daniel is one of 100 children from across the United States who will participate in the 11th annual Amputee Coalition of America's Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp. Guest column: After 20 years, ADA still provides for equal access The Amputee Coalition of America's President and CEO, Kendra Calhoun, shares her view of the 20th anniversary of the ADA. What an exciting day this is for all who have worked for equal access and opportunity for people of all abilities! Amputee Coalition of America Announces Scholarship Recipient The Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) has announced Cady Tescher, 18, of Glendora, California, as the recipient of the $1,000 Christina Skoski, M.D., Scholarship. Amputee Coalition of America Announces Scholarship Recipient The Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) has announced Cady Tescher, 18, of Glendora, California, as the recipient of the $1,000 Christina Skoski, M.D., Scholarship. World Land Speed Record-Holder Mike Roman is Keynote Speaker at Amputee Coalition of America National Conference in Irvine, California “Dreams come true if you have the courage to dream them,” is race car driver and world land speed record-holder Mike Roman’s motto. As an amputee, Roman is dedicated to spreading his message of hope, and he will do just that at the Amputee Coalition of Am World Land Speed Record-Holder Mike Roman is Keynote Speaker at Amputee Coalition of America National Conference in Irvine, California “Dreams come true if you have the courage to dream them,” is race car driver and world land speed record-holder Mike Roman’s motto. As an amputee, Roman is dedicated to spreading his message of hope, and he will do just that at the Amputee Coalition of Am Advertisements - Amputee Coalition of America Please help the ACA by clicking on advertisers’ links. By visiting their websites, you are helping the ACA support the various programs that provide help and assistance to amputees, their families, and caregivers. Amputee Coalition of America Holds Successful Meeting with Top Transportation Security Administration Officials in Washington Agency pledges better training, cooperation and sensitivity when screening air travelers with limb loss Amputee Coalition of America Holds Successful Meeting with Top Transportation Security Administration Officials in Washington Agency pledges better training, cooperation and sensitivity when screening air travelers with limb loss In Memoriam: Todd Anderson (1960-2010) In Memoriam: Todd Anderson (1960-2010) Kim Duckett Named Finalist for National Award Kim Duckett Named Finalist for National Award	A Champion Among Us: Meet Jessica Long Photo Courtesy of Steve Long Quitting has never been an option for Jessica Long. Jessica, who is now 15, was born in Russia with congenital limb differences in her legs and feet. When she was 13 months old, she was adopted and brought to America. Five months later, she had both legs amputated below the knee. Despite these challenges, Jessica has not let anything slow her down. At first glance, people may look at Jessica as a “disabled person,” but once she gets in the water, it’s clear that “disabled” is far from the case. Just look at the sports headlines and you will see why. Holding 34 U.S. swimming records, 17 Pan-American records, 2 Paralympic records, 14 world records, 3 gold Paralympic medals, and 9 gold world championship medals are only some of the accomplishments of this young swimmer. In 2006, Jessica was named Paralympian of the year by the U.S. Olympic Committee and Disabled Swimmer of the Year by Swimming World Magazine. In 2007, Jessica has continued to win awards for her record-breaking performances. Jessica became the first Paralympic athlete to win the Amateur Athletic Union’s James E. Sullivan Award. This award is presented to the U.S.’s best amateur athlete. In July, Jessica won ESPN’s Espy Award for the Best Female Athlete with a Disability. She was recently nominated for the Women’s Sports Foundation Sportswoman of the Year. These accomplishments are very impressive, especially when taking into account that Jessica has only been competitive swimming since 2002. Jessica’s parents have always recognized the benefit of people with disabilities associating with others who have disabilities. “Becoming a Paralympian takes this a step farther because it allows Jessica to associate with an elite group of people that happen to have disabilities,” says her father, Steve. By competing with older athletes on her team, Jessica has increased her confidence and become more comfortable with her own disability. Photo Courtesy of Steve Long Question and Answer YAZ recently got the opportunity to speak with Jessica and learn a little more about who this athlete really is. YAZ: What do you do for fun when you are not training or competing? Jessica: I like to go shopping at the mall or go to a movie with my friends. I also like riding my bike, jumping on the trampoline, MySpace, and organizing my bedroom. YAZ: If you could meet anyone in the world, who would that be and why? Jessica: I would like to meet Lance Armstrong because he has inspired many to push through difficulties and obstacles. YAZ: What was it like for you growing up as an amputee? Jessica: It was a little difficult when I saw other kids being able to do stuff that I couldn't do, like run. Then about 3 years ago, I got my first pair of running legs, and now I can run whenever I want. YAZ: What is the biggest challenge for you as an amputee? Jessica: Right now, I'm sitting in bed recovering from my seventh surgery on my left leg. I've had six on my right. This is always a difficult time because I am usually very active. I'm dying to get back in the pool with my swim team! YAZ: Can you remember what it was like learning to swim? Jessica: I learned how to swim in my grandparent's pool when I was very young and then joined a swim team when I was 10 years old. I remember that learning all of the strokes was a lot of hard work. I stuck with it because I loved coming back to swim with the new friends I made on the team. The butterfly was the most difficult for me to learn. I think I almost drowned the first time I did it the entire length of the pool. Now, it is my favorite stroke. YAZ: What made you interested in becoming a competitive swimmer? Jessica: I have just loved the water ever since I can remember. I was always active in sports; biking, gymnastics, skiing, basketball, trampoline, basketball, cheerleading. But when I started to win against able-bodied swimmers, I realized that I was good at swimming. That made me want to do even better. YAZ: What is a typical day like for a Paralympic athlete? Jessica: Well, after school it's time for swim practice. I do a half hour of dry land exercises and 2 hours of swimming. When I come home, I do more arm exercises and then go to bed. YAZ: How do you balance school, training, and having some time for fun too? Jessica: It is a little hard to swim and do schoolwork but I manage. My mom and dad home-school me along with my brother and sisters. This helps with the schedule because I do spend a lot of time at the pool. I can usually do some fun things with my friends on the weekends. YAZ: What is the biggest challenge for you as a swimmer? Jessica: Because I am missing my lower legs I cannot jump as far at the start, cannot kick as powerfully, and cannot push as hard against the wall on a flip turn. I have to rely almost exclusively on upper body strength. YAZ: What was it like staying in the Olympic Village in 2004? Jessica: Wow, it was amazing! I will never forget it. I was only 12 years old at the time, and I could hardly believe I was on the USA team. Team USA had an entire block in the Olympic Village so I was surrounded by our county's best athletes. YAZ: What would you tell a young amputee who is interested in becoming a Paralympic athlete? Jessica: Go for it! It is a great experience, and you get to meet other kids with disabilities. YAZ: What are your future goals? Jessica: In Beijing my goal is to bring home 7 gold medals, and further into the future I would like to write a motivational book that would inspire people to go for their dreams. YAZ: What words of wisdom or encouragement would you give a younger amputee? Jessica: Never, ever give up! (I sound like Winston Churchill.) Always strive to do your best in everything. Try a sport. Don't let your disability stop you from doing what you want to do. Photo Courtesy of Steve Long Jessica has won amazing awards, swimming records and medals in the short time since she began competitive swimming. We should expect to see this young athlete making headlines, continuing to break records, and wining more medals in the years to come. To keep up to date on Jessica’s swimming career, and read recent news articles about this amazing young athlete, check out her Web site at www.jessicalong.org/
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