Bi-Skiing With Jenny
by Wally Hofmann - April 2007

Jenny's Smile

Here's a quick story and some photos about an amazing young woman.

This week I've been working at Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra with a 21-year old student named Jenny. We've helped her get back on the slopes after a 5-year absence.

Jenny's chair ride

When she was 16 she was hit by a snowboarder at Mammoth Mtn and was paralyzed below the waist for about 18 months. Eventually, some muscle use came back, but she is still very weak and has chronic pain.

Jenny's family

Her father, Mark, taught her to ski at Mammoth when she was just 4. It was very depressing for her to watch her family continue to ski while she waited in the lodge.

Jenny's thirsty

Today she was able to bi-ski down the hill independently without tethers! It was great to see her get back her life. Lots of tears -- of joy!

Jenny's instructors

It's been a very emotional and heartwarming experience for me and my assistant Ryan and others at DSES to be a part of her skiing again with her family.

And more good news -- she's engaged to be married later this year.

In your giving to good causes you may want to consider DSES. Click here for details.