Adaptive Snowsports

One of my favorite sights to see on a snow day are those who are using adaptive equipment or techniques on the mountain.  They never fail to bring a smile to my face.  These fellow snowboarders and skiers are amazing.  They have overcome a physical or developmental disability to learn how to slide down a snowy mountain.  Let me repeat.  They have overcome a physical or developmental disability to learn how to slide down a snowy mountain.  Their determination  and motivation is truly amazing and inspirational.

 I am the mother to a boy with Downs syndrome.  Thanks to a wonderful not-for-profit adpative sports organization called S.T.R.I.D.E, he is a great skier.  The STRIDE coaches are completely volunteer.  They go through many hours of intense on and off-mountain training.  Their dedication is endless. 

I’m proud, oh so proud, to say that my son skied his first black diamond trail this week.  He did beautifully, and only non-chalantly acknowledged his accomplishment.  I, on the other hand, was shouting from the lift all day.

Our family has always had mountain nicknames for one another.  This son’s is…CHAMPION.