Day 4834 - Grayson's Journey

Greetings after almost 7 years! Clearly this blog was originally created to communicate day-to-day information on our injured boy, and daily change is no longer on the level it was a decade ago. For those that still tune in, thank you!

Today was a milestone day for Grayson. Today marked the 800th ski day since his injury, and that first day on snow with Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra back in early 2011. I can't describe that day without breaking down in tears, even after 12 years. 

Today, Grayson loves his skiing, even if he has to get up early! He flies down the mountain at a pace he decides, and he is always in control. He is adept at avoiding rocks, trees, and other bipeds. If things are unfamiliar or unusual, he slows way down. His skis are an extension of his body, and, while not perfect, he knows how to maneuver in almost any terrain. Given a choice of going in or skiing, he always chooses skiing. 

While this is not the life we expected for Grayson, it is a good life. He is happy, enjoys the outdoors sliding on the snow, and he enjoys the company he has all over town, but especially those on the hill. The lift operators (lifties), food service friends, regular (non-adaptive) mountain instructors, and mountain Hosts, all greet him by name and with high-fives. Other instructors that ski with us comment that they didn't know that they would be skiing with a celebrity! This affection shown my adult child by the people that he sees on the mountain is truly touching. 

So thank you DSES, Mammoth Mountain employees, the food services employees of Levy, and all of my friends in Mammoth Lakes for the love and affection that you show us every day. 

800 days of skiing after fearing that Grayson would never walk again. If you don't believe in a higher power, think again.

We love you all.

Pax!

Brant