​A Pennsylvania teen who lost his arms and legs to sepsis as a child is rebuilding his life step by step and chasing a future on the world stage. Chase Merriweather, now 16, was only three years old when he came under the grip of septic shock after contracting the flu. The hospital told his parents that the only way to save his life was to amputate his arms and legs, a life-altering decision that would redefine his path forever.
In the years since, Chase has learned to move, to speak, and to engage with the world in a way that would have seemed unimaginable to him at the start. He recalls the moment the amputations became a part of his story: the days when he had to relearn fundamental skills, like walking and playing with friends, while grappling with the emotional weight of such a drastic change. Yet he says those challenges became the foundation of his resilience. He now uses his experience not only to push his own boundaries but to offer a message of hope to others who are navigating similar struggles.
Today, Chase competes on Wissahickon High School’s track team in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. He has steadily climbed the ranks, turning what was once a daunting hurdle into a source of drive and purpose. This season has marked a breakthrough for him, culminating in a strong performance at district events and earning him a spot at the state championships. “This year has been my most successful year because I’ve finally placed in one of our dual meets. I just ran at district, and now I’m running at states,” he shared, expressing pride in how far he has come and gratitude for the opportunities to prove himself on bigger stages. He described the feeling of achieving his goals as “amazing,” a sentiment that grows with each new race.
Chase’s high school coach, Don Betterly, has watched his abilities evolve in awe as well. “I had no idea what he was capable of doing,” Betterly said, noting that Chase “does everything with everybody else.” If a spot opens on the roster, the coach explained, Chase leaps at the chance to compete, illustrating the mindset that makes him a continual source of inspiration for his teammates. The coach’s admiration goes beyond Chase’s physical talent; it’s his perseverance, dedication, and willingness to push through barriers that have left a lasting impression on the program.
When asked about his ambitions for the future, Chase doesn’t hesitate. He envisions the Paralympic stage as the ultimate horizon, a setting where his hard work and tenacity could translate into gold. “The Paralympics. I want to win a gold medal. 2028 [in L.A.] or 2032. Either one,” he said with clarity and focus. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: “If you keep going and never stop trying … you will eventually get it — even if there are obstacles. You just gotta run your race. I gotta run mine.”
Chase’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of determination. From the brink of a life-altering illness to the thrill of competition on a high school track, he has carved out a path defined by perseverance, optimism, and an unwavering belief in his own potential. As he continues to train and compete, he remains steadfast in his mission to inspire others who may be facing their own difficult journeys, showing that with courage and consistent effort, even the most daunting races can be run—and won.