The Power of Sports for Amputees

Our Bell Ringer / Mini Discussion Guide for The Power of Sports for Amputees explores the framing of ability and disability, the healing power of sports, obstacles and access in adaptive sports, and inclusion and belonging in the workplace.

The short, printable guide features questions for discussion, writing or private reflection; a glossary of useful terms; extended learning activities with a focus on community service to translate insight into action; and additional resources. It is available as a downloadable, printer-friendly PDF with fillable forms for smart boards/computers and also as a Google Slideshow..

This is a great teaching resource for health, physical education, and service learning classes. It’s also a powerful tool for HR departments, professional development training and community education about disability, inclusion, and anti-bias education.

More About The Film

The 46-minute documentary The Power of Sports for Amputees shows how amputee athletes live life without limits. Through interviews with athletes, coaches, families, clinicians, and policy advocates, the film reveals how physical activity is far more than recreation; it is a pathway to dignity, belonging, and human rights. 

At its core, the documentary examines how ableism and systemic inequities shape the lived experiences of people with limb loss. Despite the proven physical and psychological benefits of sports, most insurance policies classify sport-specific prosthetics and adaptive equipment as “luxuries,” leaving athletes and families to fight for access through grants, advocacy, and legislation.

The film reveals how these financial and institutional barriers restrict not only mobility but also opportunity, identity, and belonging. It celebrates adaptive athletics as a force for inclusion and healing, transforming what was once perceived as limitation into strength, purpose, and community.

Teaching Tips

To create safe space and equip participants for respectful and productive discussions about this film, we also recommend:

• Facilitation Guidelines for Group Discussions
• Facilitation Guidelines for Dialogue on Disability, Dignity and Inclusion
• Language, Power and Ableism

Important Dates: These resources work well for National Girls and Women in Sports Day (February 4), Limb Loss and Limb Difference Month (April), Youth Sports Safety Month (April), International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (April 6), National Physical Fitness and Sports Month (May), National Employee Wellness Month (June), Disability Pride Month (July), Disability Awareness Day (July 12), National Disability Independence Day (July 26), Terry Fox Day (August 4), Disability Employment Awareness Month (October) and International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3). They’re also great to teach with during the Winter and Summer Paralympic Games (held shortly after the corresponding Olympic Games) and regional Special Olympics!