Sandy Dukat is an adventurous gal. In 1998, she swam on the U.S. Disabled Swim team and broke the record for the 800-meter freestyle. She also skied with the U.S. Disabled Ski team, skied against able-bodied skiers, and competed in the 2002 Paralympics. Her participation in the Paralympics was quite a feat, considering that she first took up skiing in 1997. Just recently, she completed a climb to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa.

Sandy Dukat was born with a congenital limb deficiency; when she was 5 years old, her right leg was amputated.

“Honestly, I cannot imagine how it would be to have two sound legs. Since day one, I have faced my disability, and it is so natural for me that I don't even think about how I manage to do what I do every day. I do feel my disability has been a motivator to personally conquer the things that I have in my life. I definitely know that my disability has made me try harder to prove to myself that anything is possible.”

World Triathlon Championships
In June 2008, Sandy competed in the World Triathlon Championships in Vancouver. Sandy has done several other triathlons, but the World Championships are considered one of the top triathlons. “My experience was amazing,” Sandy recalled. “This was my first international triathlon racing experience, so I was amazed at how many talented international racers there were. Also, it was an Olympic qualifying race for several of the athletes, so it was great to compete on the same course as these elite competitors.”

Promoting Althletes with Disabilities
Sandy is currently training for her first marathon, which will be held in Phoenix, Arizona, in January 2009.
Sandy works for The Hartford, promoting the Ability Philosophy and working with the athletes who compete in the Paralympics.

“I enjoy working with our athletes as well as educating our business partners about The Hartford's Abilities message—focusing on what an individual can do, not what they cannot do,” she said.

Family Support
Sandy credits her parents and siblings for helping to shape the “can do” attitude she has today. “My parents and my siblings did a terrific job letting me be myself,” said Sandy. “They never discouraged me from trying anything; actually since I am the youngest of four, I probably tried more things just so I could keep up with them. I give my family full credit for who I am today. Without their love, support, and complete belief in me that I could do anything, I would not be the person I am today.”

Words of Wisdom
Sandy has some encouraging words for others who have recently experienced amputation. “This is a hard one, because advice to someone who has lost a limb is case-by-case specific. Some individuals want to know everything about prosthetics and what opportunities are available. However, some individuals do not need to hear that information in the beginning, so you just step back and let them know you are there for support. My mantra usually incorporates this: there are no limitations; anything is possible. Do not let your disability define you—you define your disability.”