I live in Salem, MA, with my husband, two sons, two dogs and two cats. Our feline duo, Pixie and Trixie, are affectionately known around here as “Meatball” and “Murder Mittens.” We live in a historic home built back in 1800 that has a little extra character—it was actually moved from Chestnut Street to its current spot in 1850!

I have always loved sports. Growing up in Connecticut in the 80’s and 989’s there were no opportunities for adaptive sports. Well, none that I knew of. I really wanted to play softball, but the most I did was sit so far out in the outfield during gyn class that nothing ever came to me. I spent a lot of time perfecting the art of making necklaces out of dandelions.

My Mom was the bravest person I know. She would stand 10 feet from me and pitch a neon green and pink softball. Unfortunately for her, I made contact often.

When I got older, I took up running and was able to follow the people in front of me. I run to this day and am training for a marathon in October.

In 2022, I was asked if I would be interested in playing Beep Baseball with New England Adaptive Sports. After my first practice, I was hooked!

It is hard to find a group of people where I feel I belong. I have made strong friendships who come from all walks of life. Beep Baseball is a sport specifically designed for people who are blind. I spend so much of my time trying to function in a sighted world. It is a breath of fresh air to spend a few hours of the week not having to worry about how many tools and apps I will need to make it happen.

When I am not out on the field chasing a beeping ball or running to a buzzing base, I am doing a whole lot of adulting. Soccer season will be starting for my younger son soon, and I will spend multiple evening on the sidelines during practice. I love to look up recepies for really beautiful and healthy dishes that I have all intention of making but never happens.

I love to loom knit and generally have multiple projects going at once. It is rare to find me without something to do.

Participating in adaptive sports allowed me to experience what I never could growing up. I belong to a community of people who share something special.

There is something for everyone. Not big into joining a team? No problem, trying adaptive cycling, swimming, rock climbing and skiing. Do something that is just for you and designed just for you. Be part of something amazing!

I am really competitive and want to be the best of the best. I am realizing that it is okay to not be perfect but to be the best version of myself.

– Karen Nagle