Achilles Hosts Panel with TD Bank and NYRR on Resilience and Finding Hope
As a kickoff to our marquee annual Hope & Possibility® race, Achilles International hosted a conversation on its pioneering work in the disability community, the power of adaptive running and strategies for overcoming life’s obstacles with New York Road Runners and TD Bank on June 20.
The panel, “The Freedom To Move: Journeys of Resilience and Renewed Hope,” featured:
Tyrrell Schmidt, Chief Marketing Officer, TD Bank and Achilles International Board Member, as moderator
Trisha Meili, Founding Board Chairman, Achilles International and best selling author of “I Am The Central Park Jogger: A Story of Hope and Possibility” and Co-Founder of the Achilles Hope & Possibility® race
Cedric King, retired U.S. Army Master Sergeant and Achilles Freedom Team athlete and Board Member
Paul Ortolano, Director of Event Operations at NYRR
Richard Whitehead, Paralympic Gold medalist and Marathon and Half Marathon World Record Holder
The panelists discussed strategies for overcoming challenges and making the racing world a more inclusive place for athletes with disabilities. Watch the full panel below.
“Having a disability has not gotten in my way of achieving success. Even at 47-years-old, I feel like there is always more I can achieve,” said Richard. “At some point, when I have to stop, I want to continue to be an advocate for what Achilles does and continue to show people what inclusive environments are really all about.”
One of the biggest ways to overcome adversity? The panelists agree, find a strong support system that you’re able to rely on.
“We’re all believing in ourselves and each other and that is a huge motivator,” said Trisha. “I was so fortunate to have so much support during my recovery from people all over the world, and I felt like I wasn’t alone. The community lifted me and it helped me believe in myself and helped me realize that I could still do things and achieve my goals. That's the internal part of hope, and it comes from that support.”
“There’s a song I’ve been listening to by Elton John and it goes like, ‘I’m still standing better than I ever did’ and that is exactly how I feel,” Cedric said. “I feel better than I did before, and how is that even possible? Well the only way that you can get to that place is if you’re able to come across these people (Achilles).”
The panel discussion also paid homage to the late founder of Achilles International, Dick Traum who passed away earlier this year.
“The thing about Dick, was that he didn’t believe in barriers or letting anything get in his way. He really had hope,” said Tyrrell. “He had a vision for this race and this organization.”
