 |
Team Paradox |
 |
| | Phil Bridgers - Athlete, Volunteer
It's really hard to put Paradox and the experience of being around the guys into words; in the time I've spent with them I've become very aware of how I relate to those who have a physical challenge: 'they're just one of the guys' and should be treated that way. I also am amazed by the strength and 'courage' they have. Paradox to me is a feeling from within, one of pride and provides a self-affirming, 'I'm proud to be there friend'.
Events Coordinator - Mountain Gear
| | | | | 
| | Craig DeMartino - Athlete, Volunteer
"My interaction with Paradox Sports and its staff of volunteers has been extremely fulfilling. Not just for the athletes, whom they are helping to regain a sense of self, but for me as a person who has gone through heavy trauma and the recovery process. It is priceless to witness these people grow in their faith in themselves, and also to begin the long journey back to a regular life. We need people like Paradox out there to show us we can all achieve our dreams, no matter what they may be."
| | | | | 
| | Keith Deutsch - Athlete, Volunteer
To me Paradox offers opportunities. Rarely do I feel disabled, most of the time I feel lucky! I have more chances today with my injury than I ever could have hoped for as a normy! I wouldn't take my leg back! And Paradox Sports has had a lot to do with that, thank you all for choosing to spend your lives helping others. I appreciate the hell out of it. When is the next party?
| | | | | 
|
| Callie Rennison, PhD. - Athlete, Volunteer
Though Paradox Sports is about offering "inspiration, education, acquisition and motivation" to disabled athletes, the truth is that they offer exactly the same and more to *everyone* who participates. I came away from my first Paradox event a changed person. I was inspired, I laughed non-stop and I learned more than I could have anticipated. I eagerly look forward to getting out with everyone again.
| | | | | 
| | I prefer to be outside. Whitewater kayaking, tracking, surfing, rock climbing, skiing, fly fishing and hunting have always been focal points in my life, and I cherish the rewards that come with taking on these endeavors in variable conditions. I also love the unconventional community these ventures attract; the "tribe" as my friends like to say.
In 2003 I became completely paralyzed from the chest-down after a failed rappel, and the resulting 80 foot fall that transected my spine at the fifth thoracic vertebrae. Seemingly confined to a wheelchair, I thought my life was over and became dangerously depressed the year following my accident. Learning how to use a monoski (sit-ski) the next winter at the BOEC in Breckenridge pulled me out of that depression in a mere couple of weeks, and convinced me that anything is possible with the proper support and equipment. Since then, I've adopted a myriad of different adaptive sports, and constantly seek out the people who can help me continue to pursue my passions. Paradox volunteers possess a unique and seemingly limitless drive, an unwavering dedication to living in the moment and not looking back. This dedication and level of professionalism is what sets Paradox volunteers above the rest.
This past year, Paradox volunteers helped me customize a rope-ascension system that I (a T-5 paraplegic) would feel comfortable climbing a big wall with! I hope to further develop these techniques not only for myself, but so that I can introduce them to other disabled athletes who otherwise would not have the tools and resources to get it done...
"Rock on Paradox!" | | | | | 
| | Warren Macdonald - Athlete
Tell me; when was the last time you felt fully connected to this planet? Did it come with fear, as you hurried towards shelter, in a race with the storm eager to beat you there? Did it come with a sense of belonging, watching the sun set over an endless mountain range? Whatever the emotion, it's the feeling of connection we remember, and for me, it's the feeling of connection I've spent my life chasing. Those of us who life has "challenged", who have lost something of our ability, are in a unique position. By rising above our circumstances, by continuing to seek out that connection, we fulfil not only ourselves but raise the question for others: Am I connected; am I living as fully as I can be? Everyone's a winner.
Inspired by the loser. Now there's a paradox...
| | | | | 
| | Chad Jukes - Army Staff Sergeant, Athlete, Volunteer
When I was going through the initial process of my amputation, some of the Paradox crew gave me some great advice and support. As soon as I was up on 2 feet, I was invited out to the HERA Climb for Life event in Boulder, CO. Paradox helped me learn what I needed to do to keep on climbing, and helped me out designing my own adaptive climbing foot. It's a great group, and I'm looking forward to continued involvement with Paradox Sports so I can help other people with disabilities experience the same thing. Getting into the outdoors is a great confidence builder for anyone with a disability. It helps to restore self confidence, pride, and independence. The goal of Paradox is to introduce people to these outdoor sports, as well as supporting them with equipment. I'm excited to be involved.
|
|
