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LOGAN — A community is coming together to help a Kaysville woman run for the first time in her life. They're making it possible with the help of a high-tech computerized leg.
With some extra effort, Utah State University student Kristie Christensen gets around much like anyone else. "When I am walking normally my heart is working as much as someone who is running," she said Tuesday.
Christensen only has one leg, and has learned to live with that out of necessity.
"When I was born, my femur was too short, and I'm missing my tibia," she explained, "and so then that led to amputation."
When I was born, my femur was too short, and I'm missing my tibia; and so then that led to amputation.
–Kristie Christensen
But she said a condition she's lived with her whole life could take a dramatic change thanks to a special prosthetic leg: the Plie 2.0. Thanks to a microprocessor, the $20,000 leg will move with her.
Because of the cost, Christensen started trying to raise the money by selling wristbands. "It says, ‘fearless, courageous and determined,'" Christensen said, showing off one of the bands. "And one of my really good friends told me that that was my personality."
Then fellow USU students started to pitch in. Friends with a knack for planning parties suddenly turned to organizing a fundraiser.
"We ended up raising about $800 for this little party that we thought was gonna be just a bunch of friends," said fundraiser organizer Erin Taylor.
"I think everyone looks for someone to be inspired like that, and Kristie has been that inspiration," said Kaylee Andrus, who also helped with the event.
And while college friends were putting together fundraisers, friends and family back home were doing the same.
"She's touched lives," said friend Sarah Schow. "I know she's been an inspiration to me."
With that goal inching closer, Christensen says it's hard not to imagine how life could be different.
"Now that I know it's even more of a possibility, I want to try even more," she said.
Christensen also has several amputee friends. She hopes these fundraising efforts can continue, helping them get the Plie leg as well.
For more information on how you can help, visit legupforlife.blogspot.com.*
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*ksl.com has not verified the accuracy of the information provided with respect to the account nor does ksl.com assure that the monies deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
