It was hard knowing that I was going to wake up without a leg.1

When they told me, I thought, “At least I don’t have to worry about clipping toenails on that foot anymore.” Seriously, the only thing that got to me was that I would never feel sand from the beach on that foot again. But I don’t let things get me down. 

I knew I would be back on the basketball court. I might not be as fast as the other girls, but I’d never have to worry about spraining my ankle. And if they ran into Felicia2, it would hurt them more than it hurt me. 

I guess I just wasn’t meant to have a right leg. I’m happy I have Felicia. I wouldn’t be getting the opportunities I have today without a prosthetic leg.3 

Fighting for my life motivated me. I know this happened for a reason, and I can inspire others with my story. You can overcome anything. 

 

Skylar Scarnecchia hopes to compete in the Paralympics someday. She’s also a budding model and actress. 

Photo of Skylar Scarnecchia

Photo: Clinton B Photography

Notes

  1. Scarnecchia had a below-the-knee amputation in 2016, due to complications from synovial sarcoma, a rare form of soft-tissue cancer.
  2. Felicia is the nickname that Scarnecchia gave to her prosthetic leg.
  3. In 2020, Scarnecchia won the Cleveland Clinic Sports Health Courage Award. She was nominated by her Cleveland Clinic orthopaedic surgeon, Nathan Mesko, MD.

Skylar Scarnecchia didn’t let a below-the-knee amputation stop her from playing competitive sports.