Pueblo amputee who climbed Manitou Incline raising money to help others in need

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) - A Pueblo man who lost his leg last year is still hiking some of Colorado's toughest trails, but he's using that skill and raising money for prosthetic limbs to help people in need.

Jerrod Evans, 45, had to have his left leg amputated after a motorcycle crash last year. He decided after recovering that he's not going to let his disabilities stop him, so he would start doing at least one difficult athletic activity a month.

He started with a 5K race, and last month he climbed the Manitou Incline - getting donations for every step conquered on his arm crutches.

His goal is to climb Pikes Peak by the end of the year, but he says a prosthetic leg would make it much easier. Though, the feat has been done by amputees, including a double-amputee from Colorado Springs who summitted Pikes Peak.

Evans is close to his fundraising goal of just over $9,000 for his own prosthetic leg, but says he plans to continue raising money to fund prosthetic limbs and cover medical expenses for other people in need, too.

So he's hosting a fundraiser this Saturday, February 29, from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Riverside Bar & Grill. It's eight dollars for a full pasta dinner. The event will also feature a 50/50 raffle, silent auction and live music.