A First-Timer Speaks Out

Ski for Light Focuses on Abilities Not Disabilities

I knew the day would come when I would have to leave my nursing career as I continued to lose my vision to Retinitis Pigmentosa. The idea of an early retirement was very scary and I wondered what I would do with myself all day. But I was determined to make the most of this transition and re-invent myself. I set out to find opportunities to get physically fit, learn new skills, and explore new interests. Then I learned about Ski For Light from Mary Hiland, a friend who is also keen on new adventures. She has been attending Ski for Light for many years. This opportunity was exciting and affordable and I did not hesitate to sign up.

Though I had never skied before, the website encouraged first-timers and promised we would learn the basics from our guides. I loved the idea of learning a winter sport and visiting a beautiful place. I joined a gym and began to exercise regularly so I would not embarrass myself. Mary and other veteran SFL ladies suggested working on balance, stamina and core strength. They gave me pointers on what to wear, how to pack and just what to expect at the 2015 International Ski for Light event in Granby, Colorado.

SFL 2015 was an amazing week of cross-country skiing under big, blue skies in the Rocky Mountains. We enjoyed well-groomed trails, sunny days, beautiful snow, and crisp mountain air. I am so thrilled to have had this opportunity to ski for the first time in my life. I had no idea whether I would be able to do it but as it turns out, I can ... even at my age (I'm not saying what that is, but I've retired from a nearly 30-year career as a nurse) and with the little bit of vision I have left! It was a memorable week which taught me I can do more than I think I can.

Lynn Cox was my guide. She was so encouraging and patient as she taught me everything from how to put on my skis to how to do the snow plow. In a short time, we became good friends and enjoyed our time on the trails. Lynn has been coming to SFL for many years, volunteering her time at her own expense, to guide and teach visually impaired skiers. The guides are accomplished skiers who are dedicated to the SFL philosophy and trained to work with the visually impaired. We are treated with respect, dignity, and full inclusion. It is easy to forget you are visually impaired while at SFL and that is a wonderful thing!

As it turns out, I have a special talent for falling safely and popping up quickly. While this is an important skill, it was not the one at which I wanted to excel. All week, I tried to fall less and ski more smoothly. I set goals for myself and worked to do my personal best. I improved each day; skiing farther, faster, and with fewer falls with the support and encouragement from Lynn at my side.

By rally day, I was excited about skiing the 5K trail and posting a respectable time. When I crossed the finish line, I could not stop the swell of emotions I felt. Someone placed a beautiful medal around my neck and cheers and cowbells rang out all around me. I was proud of myself for accomplishing this feat, but I was also overcome with gratitude to Lynn and SFL for making it all possible. I completed the rally in my fastest time of the week. That is what it is all about: learning your limits and then pushing past them! I have a lot more to learn and hope to master that darn "snow plow" next year.

I met many inspiring people and was a part of something special at SFL in Granby. Harald Vik is 72 years old, deaf-blind and from Norway. He has been coming to SFL for years. Last summer he was hit by a car while riding a tandem bike with other friends from Ski for Light; he had come to the U.S. specifically for the four-day bike ride and had just set off on the first leg of the trip. He was determined to be at this year's event. I met him out on the trails making his way after months of rehab and therapy. I call him "Amazing Harald." And one day, I was passed up by Charlie Wirth, a 94 year old gentleman who is totally blind and has been coming to SFL for more than 20 years. Way to stay young and active, Charlie!

Yes, the disabled skiers were inspiring to me ... but so were the dedicated guides and volunteers who come back year after year with such a heart of service and passion for this excellent program.

I plan to be in Michigan for next year's event. I will be looking for skis to purchase and keeping up with my fitness routines: tandem cycling, yoga, hiking and gym time. I cannot wait to get out in the snow again! And to think I was worried about retirement ... ha! I am having a blast!