The Hartford has supported the Paralympic Movement for more than 20 years and proudly sponsors athletes with disabilities that focus on their abilities, not perceived limitations.

In 2014, for the first time ever, the Paralympic Games would air on television in the U.S. The Games were held in Sochi, Russia, immediately following the Winter Olympics. As a sponsor of the U.S. Paralympic Team, The Hartford wanted to create TV spots featuring their sponsored athlete – Amy Purdy, Paralympic snowboarder – to air during the games.

Our inspiration came from The Hartford’s Ability Philosophy – focusing on peoples’ abilities, not perceived limitations – and Amy Purdy’s heart-wrenching story of becoming a double amputee below the knees at age 19 and her relentless determination that allowed her to achieve her dream to be a world-class snowboarder.

The creative idea…By Definition.

In her own words, Amy eloquently defines herself by what she can do, not by what she can’t.

Strengthened by what she’s overcome, Amy sees herself as more than a disabled athlete. More than a Paralympian. More than a world-class snowboarder even. And in the end, we’re left inspired to never let circumstance or the unexpected define us.

The spot aired during the broadcast of the Paralympic Games and during Dancing with the Stars when Amy Purdy was a contestant.