By: Terina Sessa
I had got into the habit of saying “No” to new ideas and new activities over the years and remained happy in my normal everyday life. This past winter, I was approached by several support workers, who encouraged me over and over again to try something new. Finally, after a 30-year break, I decided to try skiing again.
Nerves and butterflies flew through my body as I anticipated my first day of skiing. I was now in my 40s and the fear of falling was my biggest worry. I was set up with skis, jumped on the bus and made my way to the hill with several other adaptive skiers. The coaches of our local Revelstoke adaptive ski program met us at the resort. They were very nice and encouraged me enough to make my way up to the top of the beginner area. I was taught how to stop and felt more comfortable knowing that I would be able to control my speed and not crash. Over the course of the winter season, I accomplished more than I could imagine. My skiing developed quickly and I was able to leave behind the beginner area. Skiing has helped me develop new friendships with the coaches and other members of the adaptive ski program. I have continued these friendships outside of skiing.
I also find myself saying “Yes” to more activities. This winter I said “Yes” to snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, weekly workouts with Club Fit, curling and ice skating. I have continued to say “Yes” this spring to swimming lessons, long hill climb bike rides, gym workouts and tennis. All of these physical activities have helped me lose weight and to have more energy. I have also become known as the “food police,” looking at the amount of sugar in my friend’s drinks. I have completely changed my diet and have focused on eating many more vegetables and have cut out junk food.
The biggest accomplishment I have done was conquering my fear of trying new things. By finally saying “Yes” to something, I have been able to accomplish so much more than I could have imagined.
