Meet Adaptive Athlete:  Janet Rodriguez

Janet Rodriguez grew up in El Paso, Texas, where soccer quickly became the center of her life. She started playing at just four years old and continued to develop her athleticism through track and cross country, competing year-round and dedicating herself fully to the game. Soccer wasn’t just something she did - it was a core part of her identity and future aspirations.

 

At 17, Janet’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. Faced with limited options, she made the difficult decision to undergo an above-the-knee amputation. The transition was not only physically demanding, but emotionally overwhelming, as she grappled with the loss of the sport and identity she had built her life around. It took nearly two years for her to fully process that chapter and begin redefining her path forward.

 

Over time, Janet has found new motivation rooted in resilience and possibility. While the adjustment to life after amputation has come with challenges, she has remained driven to regain her strength and athletic ability. She recognizes that her journey has shifted - but not ended - and is committed to pushing past perceived limits as she continues to grow.

 

Through the ReDefine program, Janet is focused on rebuilding her physical strength and sharpening her mental toughness. With her sights set on the 2028 Paralympics, she is determined to prove that her diagnosis didn’t take away her dreams - it simply redirected them.