They Will Ski Again Testimonial

Our trip started at 4:30PM on Friday night. We endured a traffic stand still throughout our journey through LA. Rain, Friday night Rush hour and several traffic accidents dotted our way. It took us 3 hours to reach Palmdale. Traffic cleared up and we were off to highway 395. We arrived at The Village Inn at Mammoth at 4:30AM. I got to tell you, we were amazed at our accommodations. We were so impressed at the lengths LRO went to ensure our comfort. We were ready to hit the sack after our 12 hour run. Life Rolls On (LRO) left us a surprise and it really set the tone for our adventure later in the day. They left us a goodie bag with all kinds of Life Rolls On memorabilia. We thought that was very sweet. After we went through our goodie bag, we got some rest before our ski time in the afternoon.

We joined LRO and Disabled Sports of the Eastern Sierra (DSES) for our ski lesson at 1:30PM. The instructors prepared a bi-ski for me and I asked them if I could use a mono ski. I was already proficient with a bi ski and the last time I went skiing I found myself getting bored. I needed a new challenge and the mono ski was it. The  instructors warned me of the pitfalls on the mono and I was warned by others that I would be falling a lot. I was faced with a final decision. I could use the bi ski and enjoy a day of running down the slopes or challenge myself and possibly spend the day face down in the snow, but gain a new level of independence. I decided to go for it.

We immediately got fitted with a mono ski and began instruction with Maggie, Kimberly and Justin. My wife, Rosanna, followed along. We started slow by learning how to go straight on the beginner slope. I seemed to pick that up pretty good. Then I learned how to turn with the outriggers. I picked that up too. Maggie then asked me if I was ready for the slopes. I said “Yes” and we headed to the lifts. We faced a very intimidating run called “Sesame Street.” We got off of the lift and prepared for our run. I followed Maggie’s cues and successfully accomplished some basic turns. I got about half way through the run and it happened…face full of snow. Maggie and her helpers helped me up and gave me some encouragement. Maggie said she was so impressed with my turns that the rest of the run she wanted to allow me to turn without her cues. She wanted me to be independent and go with the flow. I really felt connected to the ski and it showed. I went for the rest of my run flowing and turning back and forth through the run. It ended again abruptly with another face full of snow. Our time ran out and we headed back to DSES for pictures. I was stoked! I didn’t realize how fast I would pick mono skiing up.

We had an amazing time with [LRO Executive Director] Kris Nakamura and LRO. Our day ended with a pizza party with our fellow participants, instructors, DSES volunteers and LRO staff. We enjoyed the pictures and the video produced to document our event. There was plenty of laughter and a good vibe with everyone. My wife and I both felt honored and privileged to participate in this groundbreaking event and will cherish the memories this event produced.

Warmest regards,
Joe and Rosanna DeVere