Watch to find out more about this inspirational skateboarder.
[rumble video_id=v5dfyt domain_id=u7nb2]
An inspirational skateboarder hasn’t given up on his passion despite losing a leg to cancer.
Austin Sparks was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma – commonly referred to as Bone Cancer – when he was just 13 years of age.
Though he underwent intensive chemotherapy for around one year, medics were eventually left with no choice but to cut off Austin’s right leg, just below the knee joint.
Thankfully, his cancer went in remission and never returned afterward.
Austin, who is now 22 years of age, lives in his family home in Spring Hill, Kansas, enjoying his life as much as he possibly can.
And as you would’ve guessed, the inspirational guy hasn’t said goodbye to what he loved the most.
Austin resumed skateboarding three years ago, and his trick videos are extremely popular on social media. Though his prosthetic leg makes things difficult for him, the talented guy has found ways around.
“Not having an ankle is quite the challenge when it comes to doing any flip tricks so I’ve had to adapt to doing it my way instead of the normal way,” Austin said.
“Occasionally my leg falls off when I crash and I fall often but I’m usually okay.”
He added: “I’ve taken my fair share of slams but it’s never once stopped me from pursuing my dreams and passion. Skateboarding is my escape.”
People always get shocked when they see Austin pulling off mind-blowing tricks. However, he is much appreciated and admired by the skateboarding community.
“Everyone in the skateboarding scene is kind and respectful, but I do get a lot of staring when I’m skating out of town and sometimes there is pointing and lots of questions,” Austin said.
“There is the occasional jaw drop when they see I’m doing tricks that some of them can’t even do, which is always a great feeling.
“I love teaching people how to skateboard, young or old. I’m living proof that it’s never too late to start!
“I want to be a positive role model to anyone out there I can, especially people with physical disabilities to show them it’s never too late to live a happy life doing what you love!
“You can do whatever you put your mind too, I believe in that whole heartily.”