For the past 20 years or so, I along with a large number of others, have contributed time and energy to enhance the lives of disabled children. We do this through the Nipissing Trackers, generously supported by NADY, our local Laurentian Ski Hill and many people who simply care. We use experience, ingenuity and some specialized equipment to give the kids the excitement and freedom of sliding on snow on a hill which to us is a bit of a pimple but to them is as big and daunting as Mount Everest. The excitement is palpable and contagious and kids return year after year to enjoy the fun. Smiles are the currency of payment.
This past Sunday our volunteer instructors began training for this year’s program which starts in a couple of weeks. We try to bring the fun and joy of skiing to people whose horizons can be expanded beyond the constraints that fate has dealt.
Here are a some photographs of the training we do with a device called a “Bi-Ski” which is used for those kids who spend much of their lives in a wheelchair. (One of our brave instructors is riding in the Bi-Ski as the “Guinea Pig”.)
For more speed and maneuverability the Bi-Ski can be “flown” on tethers. This takes a great deal of talent, judgement and skiing ability.
Occasionally there is a minor disaster. (No damage done here.)
Success is getting to the bottom of the hill without mishap.
And the reward is a great big smile!
Another week of training and then, “Let the Season Begin!”
photodyssey 