The Adventures of a Blind Cross-Country Skier

Legally blind since childhood from a rare congenital disease, Melinda is a graduate of Hope College with a Master's Degree from the University of Michigan.  She became aware of Ski for Light in 2013, when the organization held its annual event at Shanty Creek.  Ski for Life matches impaired cross-country skiers with able-bodied guides who ski in parallel tracks. Melinda was determined to attend the group's 2014 event in Alaska, but her father's illness precluded that. She organized a group to attend the 2015 event in Colorado, but everyone else backed out.

 

At that point Melinda's first thought was that she had no choice but to forget the trip--there was simply no way she could go alone.  But on further reflection, she thought "Why not?"  She ended up going and participating in the the 10-k event.  Last winter the event was back at Shanty Creek, and she again participated in what she described as a wonderful event.

 

Melinda is now on the board for Ski for Light, serving on the recruitment committee.  In that capacity she passed out flyers inviting support as a skier, volunteer or sponsor.  This winter's event will be from February 5th through the 12th in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.  Melinda urged us all to be open to life's opportunities as they present themselves.