Author: Sammy Heywood Okine
USA-based Ghanaian Winter Olympian Akwasi Frimpong has undergone a successful foot surgery.
In a message to Yours Truly he said “I have courageously made the decision to undergo a foot surgery, a bold move five months before the 2024-2025 skeleton season, eight months prior to the Skeleton World Championships in Lake Placid, USA, and sixteen months ahead of the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympic Games qualification.
“This journey has been one of self-discovery and resilience. Since childhood, I carried two bones fused together in my foot, a condition that went unnoticed until recently.
This condition called Calcaneusvanicular Coalition is something that only about 1% of the population has.
The persistent pain since September 2022 has challenged me physically and emotionally, hindering my ability to walk, run, and train effectively for the past two years.
“Despite enduring countless tests, consultations, and misdiagnoses, my unwavering determination led me to advocate for myself. Following an in-depth evaluation, top ankle surgeon Dr. Beals in Park City, Utah successfully separated the fused bones yesterday.
“Now, I face a challenging road to recovery as I strive to qualify for the upcoming World Championships but, most importantly, the 2026 Winter Olympics. Gratitude fills my heart for the support and expertise that have guided me through this journey.
“Though the path ahead may be arduous, I am determined to maintain a positive mindset and dedicate myself wholeheartedly to working with Dr. Britt at Wasatch Sports Factory in my recovery process, giving my all towards achieving my athletic dreams” he expressed.
