Climbing With Challenge Aspen

Challenge Aspen is a local group that strives to create “possibilities for people with disabilities.” One of their annual programs is bringing groups of disabled military veterans to Aspen for the week, where they climb, raft and generally have a good time. I’ve been fortunate to help out with this the last two years, and it’s always incredible to be a part of.

Watching these guys with one arm or one leg battle their way upwards is nothing short of inspiring. You think the “freedom” scene in Braveheart gets you fired up? How about a guy with one leg moving up a climb better than some folks do with two. Saw it happen yesterday. Damn.

I know this is supposed to be a great experience for these guys, but ultimately, I think we probably get more from it then them. Sure we give them an outlet, something new try to get outside their comfort zone and hopefully break down some mental barriers. But these guys give us a true sense of determination and perseverance. Compared to what these guys have gone through, and go through on a daily basis, any “bad day” I’ve had pales by comparison.

Politics aside, these guys have sacrificed much for something they believed in, and I’m honored to be able to give something back to them, in whatever small way I can.