Tennis has always been a huge part of Chevy Chase resident Kemit-Amon Lewis’ life—until it was nearly taken away. In 2019, while working as a marine scientist in his native St. Croix, Lewis contracted a bacterial infection that led to septic shock.
After spending two weeks in a coma, Lewis awoke to devastating news. Doctors had to amputate his right leg below the knee, along with his right hand, several fingers on his left hand, and the toes on his left foot.
Despite everything he endured, Lewis never lost sight of his goal: returning to the life—and the game—he loved.
Lewis began rehabilitation immediately, relearning everyday tasks as he adapted to life after his amputations. He was fitted with a prosthetic arm and leg in 2020.
Slowly but surely, Lewis was able to get back on the tennis court with equipment tailored to his needs.
A former Division 1 tennis player, Lewis took his game to Para Standing tournaments all around the world, showing that physical limitations don’t have to define what’s possible.
“Life is great beyond the whole 2019 and almost not making it out of that year,” Lewis said. “Life goes on. Diving continues and tennis continues but these opportunities that have opened for me are even more impressive than I thought they could be.”
Lewis trains nearby at JTCC in College Park, Maryland and is preparing for another tournament in Finland later this month.
“The idea that you don’t necessarily need a hand to play tennis is important for people to know,” Lewis said. “Tennis is the healthiest sport in the world and it has done so much for my mental health. I will advocate for any one able body or not to get on the tennis court.”
