“I love that it’s really personal. If I’m ever out on an adventure day, getting to really know who you’re with and they remember you the next time they see you.” - Sadie, an ASC participant 

When Sadie first walked into the Adaptive Sports Center four years ago, she never imagined rock climbing would become one of her favorite activities. At the time, it felt like something beyond her reach—but the team at Adaptive made it not only possible, but transformative. That first climb lit a spark in her, and it’s been growing ever since.

Sadie has Pfeiffer Syndrome, which is a genetic disorder that causes craniosynostosis, the premature fusion of the skull bones, and can cause other bony fusions. This disorder affects Sadie’s mobility, as both of her elbows are fused, and her knees do not have full flexion or extension. 

From standing up for the first time on a paddleboard to kayaking solo and earning her driver’s license, Sadie’s journey has been marked by quiet milestones that now feel monumental. Beyond the adventures, being part of the Adaptive community has given her a deep sense of belonging. 

Sharing adventures with friends and family has also been empowering. She remembers the first time her friends invited her to their neighborhood bouldering gym, and she was excited to say yes, because the confidence she gained through her experiences with Adaptive. 

After reaching the top of a rock-climbing route at Hartman Rocks and taking in the sweeping views of Gunnison, she was hooked. Now, she regularly climbs at the bouldering gym with her friends and tackles routes on her own. Skiing, too, holds a special place in her heart for the way it unites people regardless of their individual abilities. Each winter, she loves skiing with friends and family in Crested Butte, sharing the excitement of carving down the mountain.

Through all of this, Sadie has discovered new strength and resilience within herself. “You can always try it,” she says. “You may have to adapt along the way, and it may not be how everyone else is doing it, but you can do it your own way and figure it out.”

That mindset played a key role in one of her proudest accomplishments: getting her driver’s license. After years of anticipation, she now enjoys the freedom of driving herself wherever she wants, including the local Starbucks on her way home from school.

Looking back on her journey, it’s clear how much Sadie has grown. She remembers feeling scared the first time she tried rock climbing, but now each summer, she challenges herself to climb higher than before—and always succeeds. Over the years, she’s learned valuable lessons, solidified her values, and made it a point to always smile, be kind, and go out of her way to help others. 

“No matter what anybody else is saying, I will always aim to be nice to everyone and smile and be inclusive of people because whenever people do that to me, it’s really nice.”

Her advice for anyone just starting in adaptive sports is simple, but powerful: “Don’t be scared to ask for help. Don’t be scared to try. Don’t be scared, you can’t do it — you just may have to do it differently.”