WALLINGFORD, Conn. (WFSB) - Athletes are gearing up for a challenging obstacle course.
This Saturday, Gaylord Hospital is having its 11th annual gauntlet.
Some of those participating are dealing with life changing injuries.
“It was pure determination at a certain point,” said Anthony Picchion, athlete.
This will be Picchion’s second time doing the gauntlet, a race with 24 obstacles.
Gaylord Hospital organizes this annual event.
After Picchion’s dirt bike accident, Gaylord helped him gain back some of his independence.
“It was tough getting hurt. I was 18-years-old, and you think you have your whole life,” said Picchion.
Adapting to a wheelchair has been hard, but he’s determined to live the best life possible.
“I remember my first day inpatient, and they wheeled me into the inpatient gym. I started crying and said, ‘Get me out of here,’” said Laurie Bizzario, Athlete.
This will also be Laurie Bizzario’s second time doing the gauntlet.
She has also come a long way. A boating accident left her paralyzed. She wasn’t able to walk or use her arms.
“The impact was so hard it broke my back, and then I also had a spinal cord injury,” she said.
Two years of physical therapy has made a huge difference.
Today, Laurie is now running races.
The gauntlet is truly inspiring. It gives people courage to push through some of the toughest challenges.
“Everyone has a different journey. Everyone has a different story. People are here for all different reasons. And that’s why what we do is so individualized. Everyone has a different path to recovery,” said Katie Joly, Gaylord Sports Association.
“I think I am definitely more of an optimistic person. More of a happier person, because you cherish what you still have and you realize how important the little things are, because you don’t know when it’s going to be the last time you can do somethings or breathe,” said Picchion.
The gauntlet is this Saturday at Gaylord Hospital in Wallingford. This year there are 1,100 athletes.
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