News 01.21.25

From Battlefield to Triumph: The Inspiring Journey of Melissa Stockwell 

From the ashes of a battlefield explosion to the pinnacle of Paralympic glory, Melissa Stockwell’s story is filled with courage and determination. Her journey began on the battlefield in Iraq, where a roadside bomb caused her to lose her left leg. This significant event started a new chapter in her life, where Melissa would push the limits of what she and others in similar situations could achieve. 

After returning to the U.S., Melissa’s rehabilitation at Walter Reed Army Medical Center introduced her to adaptive sports, transforming her from soldier to elite athlete. Supported by fellow veterans, she reached for greatness beyond the military, leading her to compete in swimming at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games and, later, in triathlon. “I love to run and need to go for a run every day – it’s part of me and who I am,” said Melissa. 

Triathlon quickly became Melissa’s passion, showcasing her endurance, agility, and strength. Her remarkable athletic journey includes three world titles and a bronze medal at the Rio 2016 Paralympics. She competed in four Paralympic Games, culminating in a commendable fifth-place finish in Paris, which was more than a competition-it celebrated her journey and broad impact both in and outside of sports. 

Behind every great athlete is a support team that enhances their abilities. For Melissa, this includes her husband, Brian Tolsma, a talented prosthetist specializing in high-performance athletics. Melissa and Brian met in Chicago during their residencies. Brian’s expertise has been crucial in equipping athletes, including Melissa, with prostheses that optimize their performance. Together, they operate Tolsma Stockwell Prosthetics in Colorado Springs. Their clinic is known for advancing prosthetic solutions for athletes and other amputees, including frequently using the Fillauer Obsidian running blade, chosen by Melissa for its superior functionality and comfort. This blade, celebrated for its adaptability and lightweight design, has supported Melissa through various marathons and triathlons. “This is my blade of choice for anyone that is going to participate in technical running,” commented Brian.

Brian also fits prostheses for Hailey Danz, another celebrated Paralympian who shares a profound connection of mentorship and friendship with Melissa. They have trained and competed together, sharing experiences and victories. One notable instance is when Melissa mentored Hailey through her first triathlon, illustrating her commitment to supporting emerging talent in adaptive sports. Melissa described her relationship with Hailey as “a journey of friendship and a story of peer mentorship. The bond you build in training with others lasts for a lifetime.” 

Melissa’s role in mentoring Hailey and other athletes at Dare2tri, the nonprofit she helped start, demonstrates her dedication to nurturing new talent in adaptive sports. Dare2tri provides resources and training, fostering a community where individuals can thrive despite physical challenges. 

Melissa is also an active mother at home. She shared, “My running blade has been through many miles training for the Paralympic games, but it is more than that to me. It helps enable me to be active in my everyday life. I am also a wife and mom with kids. My priority is my family, and I feel it’s important for my kids to see my goals and feel inspired to set their own goals to try to achieve. My kids are in sports, and we like to ski, golf, and live an active life. I jog along next to my kids while they ride their bikes. Having my running blade positively impacts my everyday life. I am a part of the team and family.” 

As Melissa continues to inspire and lead, her story is a powerful example of overcoming adversity with grace and leading by example. From a wounded veteran to a Paralympic icon, prosthetist, and a proud mother, Melissa, supported by Brian’s expertise and the community they foster, remains an inspiration for a new generation of athletes who see her as a mentor, a champion, and a hero.