1–2 Mar 2025 338 days to go! #BostonRunShow

David Whelan

David Whelan is an adaptive Paratriathlete that aims to motivate and inspire, not just adaptive athletes, but everyone he meets. David sustained a crushing injury to his left foot which resulted in being diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), the worst chronic pain condition known to medical science. After many failed surgeries to save his foot, and with the CRPS continuing to spread, David elected to amputate his affected foot. However, the surgery did not alleviate the excruciating pain. He realized that if he were to have a higher quality of life, he would need to focus on his overall health and fitness level. He would also need to reshape his inner dialog, shifting away from a victim mentality to one of empowerment. After having an extensive revision surgery on his amputated limb, which occurred during the height of COVID lockdowns, David not only taught himself to walk again but also to run. Now pain-free, David races competitively in USA Triathlons, marathons, and other events. He has even participated in a High-Performance Talent ID Camp at the US Olympic Training Center. David is motivated and determined to push himself physically to reach his performance goals, while also serving as a source of motivation and inspiration for others on their fitness journeys.

David Whelan is an adaptive paratriathlete, whose goal is to motivate and inspire not only adaptive athletes but also everyone he meets. After battling a crushing injury to his left foot and being diagnosed with the worst chronic pain condition known to medical science (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome), David learned to turn tragedy into an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on his own quality of life, and on the lives of others, through competitive athletics. Join him as he shares how reshaping his inner dialogue allowed him to become the best version of himself.