Matt ’s story: No obstacles

When Matt Freitas walked into TA Fitness, a warrior gym in Weymouth, Massachusetts, with his mother and a doctor’s note, co-owner Dave Cavanagh wasn’t sure what to expect. Then he thought, “If he’s coming into the gym with one leg, he must know what he can and can’t do.” It’s seems as if the 15-year-old ninja warrior competitor and lacrosse goalie can do just about anything. He’s a straight-A student, Boy Scout, wrestler and local celebrity. “Everyone knows Matt,” says Jenny Lawler, co-owner of TA Fitness. “I’ve seen younger kids whisper to their parents, ‘Is that Matt Freitas?’” Last year, Matt, who loves the television series “American Ninja Warrior,” persuaded a friend to accompany him to the gym. The friend never returned. Matt works out there as often as he can fit into his jam-packed schedule. He’s joined the staff and often helps out with kids’ parties on weekends. It is hard to miss Matt’s lanky 6’2” frame, easy grin and quirky sense of humor. Most of all, there’s the quiet determination that comes from facing an obstacle far tougher than any he’ll encounter on a warrior course. One month before his 12th birthday, Matt was involved in a head-on car crash in Maine. His right foot was trapped under the front passenger seat and nearly severed. He was rushed to Maine Medical Center and underwent a below-the-knee amputation. Matt’s parents Melissa and Scott lobbied to have their son transferred to Boston Children’s Hospit...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Our Patients’ Stories Dr. Benjamin Shore Dr. Christine Greco Orthopedic Center Orthopedic Trauma Program Pain Treatment Services Source Type: news