Just days old, Ela went to Boston Children’s for treatment of a complex condition that affects her hands and arms. After lots of occupational therapy, splints, and six surgeries—including one that gave her thumbs—she and her parents now counsel families facing a similar diagnosis. And, she plans to be a hand surgeon. Ela always strives to make others feel confident and valued for “what’s on the inside.”
Ela was recently approached by Saucony, when they expanded their Run For Good Children’s Program, a collaborative design initiative that celebrates incredible kids and the life-changing work of outstanding children’s hospitals around the US and Canada. Special edition shoe and apparel styles are designed by kids and inspired by their unique personalities, interests and journeys. And, they come in extended adult sizing to fit both youth and adults!
With every purchase of the Run For Good Children’s Program products, you’ll help support the care and wellbeing of children at hospitals that are near and dear to each community – the Children’s Hospital of New Orleans, Boston Children’s Hospital, The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Twenty percent of every sale from these collections will be donated to the children’s hospitals or their designated charity, for a minimum donation of $200,000 collectively. Ela's Ride 14 and Outpace 3” Short (click here for Women's / click here for Men's) sport a bold graphic pattern that will stand out just like Ela does on the soccer field.
I had the honor of interviewing Ela about her experience with Saucony and the Run For Good Children's Program!
Tracy: Tell us about your design! Did someone from Saucony help you along the way?
Ela: My design was basically made based on many of my favorite sneakers I previously owned. The designers from Saucony asked me questions like what my favorite color is, and what type of prints I like. Many designers and engineers worked with me along the way via Zoom meetings.
Tracy: What part of this experience are you most proud of?
Ela: I am most proud of of the final product of the Ela Ride 14. I am excited that they are being sold across the nation.
Tracy: Your health journey began when you were just a few days old! As a kid, what struggles do you face?
Ela: As a child, some struggles I face on a daily basis are things like opening certain items, and fatigue with overuse of my hands, to name a couple. However, I compensate by making adjustments for success.
Tracy: If you could give one piece of advice to kids who have similar diagnoses, what would it be?
Ela: Don't let your struggles define who you are and what you can do. Show people there is nothing you can't do.
Ela: One final note. It's much easier to persevere when you surround yourself with helpful and supportive friends and family.
Thank you, Ela! You can purchase your own pieces from Ela's Run for Good Children's Program line via the links above.
I will be giving away a pair of Ela's Ride 14 sneakers on social media. Be sure to follow me there and enter!
1 Comments
Sep 23, 2021, 5:58:15 AM
Anita Natalizia - Ela is amazing..with great family and friends behind her she will succeed in every aspect of her future!! Go Ela!!