Feb09  I'd like to send a big thank you to the volunteers at Searchmont Resort who run the No Limits Ski Club for giving me the opportunity to try something new.

Recently, I went downhill skiing, and let me tell you, that's no small feat.  I have a physical disability and use a wheelchair for mobility. Searchmont Resort has started an adapted downhill skiing program for persons with disabilities. They have two adult sit skis and one child-sized sit ski, and outriggers for persons with a leg amputation. They also have certified instructors and trained volunteers.

When I was getting ready to go out to the ski hill, I was surprised at the entourage that followed me. They were all skilled and sensitive to my disability, and assisted in the transfer to the ski.  They towed me to the bunny hill and got me up the lift and ready for my first run down. I was given lots of instructions and we started down the hill.

What a feeling of freedom it was. It was even more thrilling as I learned how to control the ski myself and began to develop a feel for how to steer.  What an incredible invention the sit ski is. It was pretty chilly that day, however I didn't even think about the cold. I was too busy having fun.

Did I say how wonderful the volunteers are? Without them, this program would not be possible, and those of us with physical disabilities would be still observers; not participants.  Thanks also goes to Searchmont Resort for providing the support for this program.

If you or someone you know has a disability and would like to try downhill skiing, now is the time.  I look forward to my next lesson. See you on the slopes.

Diane Morrell