World record swimmer Mallory Weggemann to keynote Yes U Can USA’s Gift of Movement benefit
Dr. Jenni Buckley (far right) of the University of Delaware shows off an adapted tricycle designed by her mechanical engineering students.
WILMINGTON, DE — U.S. Paralympic swimmer Mallory Weggemann, who holds 34 American and 15 world records, will headline the second annual Gift of Movement Celebration on October 24 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at White Clay Creek Country Club. In 2008, complications from an epidural injection left Mallory paralyzed from the waist down. In spite of her disability, Mallory went on to become one of the most decorated American swimmers.
The evening will feature hors d’oeuvres, dinner, a silent auction and an address from Carla Markell, Delaware’s First Lady. The benefit is hosted by Yes U Can USA, an organization for people who are disabled or have limited mobility. The nonprofit identifies and overcomes barriers, then gets people with disabilities moving through exercise and activities.
“The local disabled community really had few options when it came to activities,” says Vickie George, co-founder of and active participant in Yes U Can USA. “We are changing that in a big way. With the help of more donors, partners and volunteers, we’ll put resources directly towards expanding our sports, fitness and outdoors programs, so more people can reap the physical and psychological benefits.”
More than 115,000 Delawareans have disabilities. Yes U Can USA offers individualized exercise, swimming, and wildlife programs, and does not charge its participants any fees. Making a gift to Yes U Can USA gives the gift of movement and accessibility to people.
To attend the event, visit www.YesUCanUSA.org/dinner.
If you would like to sponsor the event, visit www.YesUCanUSA.org/sponsors.
If you can’t attend and would still like to donate, visit www.YesUCanUSA.org/donate.
Yes U Can USA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that breaks the disability barrier. Located in Newark, DE, the organization seeks to increase inclusion, awareness and access to health, recreation and physical fitness opportunities for people with limited mobility and disabilities.