Ellie Bowen experienced a life-altering event at the tender age of 13 months.

Doctors identified necrotising fasciitis, an uncommon yet dangerous bacterial illness that breaks down tissue under the skin.

Her mother and father were terrified they could lose their young daughter, and although she lived, surgeons amputated her right leg.

At the age of 17, Bowen serves as the youngest competitor in the Welsh athletics team and is ready for her first appearance at the Commonwealth Games.

"Having my leg removed so early in life made it seem ordinary to me," she explained.

"With time, I began to notice differences, but athletics helped me realize I could participate in sports equally to others.

"It might appear unusual, yet the experience remains identical."

Originating from Caerphilly, Bowen will fulfill a dream from childhood by competing for her nation at the Commonwealth Games in the seated shot put event.

"I feel great pride in my achievements. This has been my goal since around age four or five, when I expressed a desire to engage in sports and represent Wales, and now it is happening," she remarked.

Anthony Hughes, a key figure in developing many of Wales' top Para-athletes through his role as performance director at Disability Sport Wales, recognized her talent early on.

He got Bowen involved in wheelchair racing, where she quickly earned medals, before she developed an interest in field events.

"I had only begun training in shot put, discus and javelin when the pandemic struck. Upon returning, I was entered into an event and earned the top performer award," she noted.

"This led me to think, 'perhaps I have some skill here' and I continued, growing to love the sport."

Few spectators at Glasgow's Scotstoun Stadium will likely feel more pride than Bowen's parents, who still consider themselves "fortunate" to have her with them.

"We almost lost her when she was 13 months old, but she is here and excelling," her mother Anne stated.

"As a child, she aspired to match her brothers and sisters, often asking why she could not ride a bike like them, so she learned to do so."

Bowen's resolve is equaled by her parents' dedication to helping her reach her athletic goals.

Her father Martin constructed a custom bicycle allowing her to cycle alongside the family, and later created a campervan to support travel to track and field meets.

"She has progressed remarkably. No challenge has ever stopped her," Martin commented.

"She attempts everything put before her, and finds a way if direct success is not possible."

Bowen now aims to bring pride to her parents as they support her in Glasgow.

"This is the largest event I have entered, and I am simply pleased to participate," she said.

"Winning a medal would be incredible, but just being present fills me with gratitude."