"When I tell my friends back home that I’m coming here, I literally tell them I’m going to where my heart is." - Janelle Hewelt, ASC and Ladies Session participant Janelle was one of the featured women in our 2025 Crested Butte Open film about Ladies Session, a biannual camp that fosters empowerment, connection, and new adventures for women with physical, visual, and orthopedic disabilities. Janelle’s journey to Crested Butte began far from the mountains, in her home state of South Carolina. At 22 years old, her life changed suddenly when she was diagnosed with transverse myelitis, a rare neuroimmune disorder that left her a quadriplegic within eight hours. Doctors told her she would never walk again, but with her self-described stubborn resiliency, her mom’s assistance, and the support of leg braces, Janelle defied the odds and walked out of her inpatient rehab facility. Now, 11 years later, she continues to discover what’s possible each time she returns to the Adaptive Sports Center. Janelle credits adaptive sports with bringing her back to life. It showed her she could travel independently, try new things and open her eyes to what’s possible. Janelle’s biggest takeaway from her experience was knowing adventure was still possible, with a resounding YES! Janelle has frequented Crested Butte through Adaptive’s Ladies Session camps in both winter and summer. For Janelle, it was transformative. She shared how refreshing it was to spend time with women who not only understand her journey but also encourage her to push her limits without ever feeling like a burden. “The beauty of the Ladies Sessions is that you get to cross paths with people that aren’t always in your same circles. Various disabilities, various ages, but that’s the unique part of Ladies Session.” Janelle describes Crested Butte as the place where her heart is. Each visit helps her re-identify herself and reminds her that she is worthy, capable, and strong. “There is warmth knowing that each time I come here, I learn more about myself and my capabilities. I can’t thank the Adaptive Sports Center enough.” Janelle’s story shows how the right support and opportunities can spark growth and independence. Each visit to Crested Butte pushes her to discover new strengths, reminding her that she’s capable of more than she ever imagined, even outside of Crested Butte. The Adaptive Sports Center is proud to provide that support and opportunity for everyone who comes through its doors. You can watch the full Ladies Session film at adaptivesports.org/events/crested-butte-open.
