From Patients to Paralympians: Paley Institute Patients to Compete at the Summer 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris

 

Amidst the historic backdrop of the summer 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, three extraordinary young athletes and patients of the Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute, are about to step onto the world stage, embodying the pinnacle of perseverance, resilience, and passion. These young athletes, each overcoming the challenges of Congenital Femoral Deficiency (CFD), a rare birth defect characterized by a shortened or missing femur, will represent Team USA, showcasing their incredible journey from patients to paralympians.

Behind these incredibly determined athletes is the support and medical expertise of Dr. Dror Paley, a pioneer in treating Congenital Femoral Deficiency, along with the dedicated team at the Paley Institute in West Palm Beach, FL. The Paley Institute has been instrumental in their medical journey, providing innovative and state-of-the-art treatment for CFD. Dr. Paley’s expertise, combined with the dedication of the entire Paley Institute team, has empowered these young athletes to overcome significant medical challenges and strive for gold.

Dr. Paley expressed his pride and admiration for Arelle Middleton (Track/Field), Keegan Knott (Swimming), and Jordan White (Archery): “These young athletes exemplify the spirit of perseverance and determination – against all odds. While their road to recovery and ultimately the Paralympics have not been easy, they have shown that with determination and a strong care and support system, anything is possible. I am incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to watching them compete in Paris.”

These young athletes’ stories are a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of exceptional medical care. The Paley Institute, under the leadership of Dr. Dror Paley, has been a beacon of hope and healing, transforming the lives of patients with CFD and other complex conditions. As Arelle, Keegan, and Jordan head to Paris, they have the people of Paley cheering them on and remaining invested in their futures’ post-life-changing procedures.

The Paley Institute continues to lead in orthopedic care and innovation in treating limb deformities, making a profound impact on the lives of patients with CFD and other complex conditions. As Arelle, Keegan, and Jordan head to Paris, they carry with them the hopes and well-wishes of the entire Paley Institute family.

Meet the Athletes Defying the Odds

 

Arelle Middleton: Shooting Her Paralympic Shot

At just 16 years old, Arelle Middleton from Rancho Cucamonga, CA, is one of the youngest members of the 2024 U.S. Paralympic Track and Field Team. Despite being born with Congenital Femoral Deficiency, a condition that resulted in her underdeveloped hip and left leg being 15 cm shorter, and undergoing numerous corrective surgeries, Arelle has remained a dedicated athlete since the age of 5. Her hard work and determination have earned her a spot on the U.S. Paralympic Track & Field Team, where she will compete in the shotput.

In the face of adversity, Arelle continues to defy expectations, showing that with the support of specialized medical care and a good sweat and a big smile, anything is possible. Her journey is a true testament to resilience and the power of perseverance.

 

 

Keegan Knott: Swimming to the Seine

Keegan Knott, from Lake Villa, IL, began competitive swimming at the age of 7 and has been with U.S. Paralympics Swimming since she was 9. While Keegan has undergone numerous limb lengthening procedures to treat her congenital femoral deficiency and fibular hemimelia in her right leg, including a shorter femur and tibia, no fibula or right hip joint, and a fused right ankle, she has always managed to stay afloat, demonstrating her unwavering passion and resilience.

Through every surgery and every recovery, Keegan’s eyes were set on how to perfect her stroke. She is now ready to make a winning splash at the Paralympics in Paris, representing the Paley Institute and the U.S. with pride.

 

 

Jordan White: Aiming High and for the Bullseye

Jordan White, from Cedar Park, TX, became the youngest U.S. archer to qualify for the Paralympics at just 15 years old. A sophomore at Hill Country Christian School of Austin, Jordan was born with his right leg shorter than his left and has undergone 20 operations, including ongoing leg-lengthening procedures. Despite his right leg being 7 inches shorter than his left, which requires him to wear a foot-on-foot prosthesis, Jordan is the pinnacle of precision and passion and has earned a place on the U.S. Paralympic Team.

Jordan’s journey in archery began during the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. Just like his bow that flies through the air, Jordan has advanced rapidly, quickly outgrowing his local YMCA tournaments and going on to set six national records and compete internationally. Almost as strong as his passion for the Paris games is his desire to do good. Jordan dedicates his days to showing others that with determination and hard work, anyone can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.