From the Ski for Light Bulletin - Spring 2013
By Gretchen VanOrmer
As a newbie to Ski for Light, I have to ask, how could this not have been a life-changing event? It has been several years since I have spent time with anyone else visually impaired, and participating this year at SFL and watching so many people with less vision than I have accomplish so much really gave me a great sense of empowerment. I guess all the chickens stayed home, because watching someone learn to ski for the first time or wander lost around the hotel reminded me just how much courage people have.
I just thought this was an event to get me out of the house, but it was indeed life changing. I could not be more proud about the events of the week. The matching of guides to skiers and the bonds we form is miraculous. The weather wasn't perfect, but it didn't really matter. I watched my first narrated movie, "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel," at first wondering if I could sit through it and then wanting more. I felt welcomed by long-time Ski for Light folks. From the encouraging talks with the dog walker in the hot tub to the tear shed as people crossed the finish line this experience will forever stand out. Just the training sessions alone brought me new self esteem even though I still can't seem to line up the three little holes on the boots with the pins on the skis! Even so, I now understand how unifying the sport and the week can be.
Ski for Light, you have touched my life in ways you'll never know.