Chase Merriweather

Chase Merriweather was infected by a life-threatening flu virus that sent him into septic shock during a family vacation to what is known as the happiest place on earth in 2013. While hospitalized, he suffered a brain hemorrhage and underwent emergency surgery, which would eventually cause the loss of hearing in his left ear and reduced vision in his left eye. Over a few weeks, he slowly recovered but the medications that saved his vital organs restricted blood flow to his extremities. This resulted in necrosis, followed by amputation of his hands and feet. 

Despite everything, Chase hasn’t let the loss of his limbs slow him down. Quite to the contrary, it has fueled his superhero spirit and he has returned to the lively boy full of laughter that he was before his illness. Chase’s family continues to support him in all his athletic endeavors —from soccer to track and field to baseball, sled hockey, football, swimming and more.

Chase has been participating in adaptive track and field events since 2015. 3 years ago, he joined the North Jersey Navigators where he has benefited from weekly practices with very experienced coaches. As a member of the Navigators, Chase has broken the 400m record in his age/classification and is working closely with coaches towards creating a classification for throwing discus and shot-put. Currently, Chase is the only quad amputee competing in discuss and shot put, but he hopes to inspire others like him to compete in these events which will then create a new category. 

While Chase is an amazing athlete he also enjoys advocating for himself and helping curate ideas that will ultimately make things better for those in the disability community. Chase has had the opportunity to work with many amazing brands such as French Toast and Adidas to develop accessible clothing and accessories.

Chase has many athletic goals but most of all wants to change the way people think or see people with disabilities.