Ali Is Breaking Down Barriers

When Ali’s coach offered her the option to opt out of drills that she might find difficult, her response was “I’ll figure it out.”

And she did, time and time again. She became a key part of her softball team which led them to the state tournament and received the Breakthrough Performance Award from the Las Vegas Sun publication.

Just 14 years old, Ali is an excellent example of determination and resilience that led her to thrive despite the challenges she faces in her sports career. Born with fibular hemimelia, a congenital limb deficiency that caused the absence of her left fibula and a shortened, bent left femur, Ali has faced obstacles since she was 9 months old, which is when she underwent a leg amputation. Since then, she has undergone multiple surgeries to help support her knee and straighten her leg as she grows. She has received 20 prostheses, including a specialized running leg, all from Shriners Children’s Southern California.

Twelve years ago, Ali was one of Shriners Children’s National Patient Ambassadors. She and her parents, Tara and Mark, shared her story across the country. She also served as a Standard Bearer at the 2023 Shriners Children’s Open – carrying the scores of professional golfers as they competed in the tournament and telling her story of perseverance and the ways Shriner Children’s has made a difference in her life.

Today, she’s an outstanding multi-sport athlete. Her determination shines through in everything she does. Whether she is paddleboarding, biking, hiking or playing sports, she is determined to be the best at it. Ali shows this repeatedly with her talent on her softball team, where she pitches and plays second base, earning her the title of being the most gifted athlete in her division. Her achievements don’t stop there, as she also won a gold medal in the Junior Paralympics for archery and track and field.

Ali’s story goes beyond facing physical challenges, it's about her determination and commitment to her passions. She is an inspiration to all of us, showing that with good spirits and hard work, you can achieve any goal no matter the obstacles in your path.