First Climb Launches in Kansas City
First Climb, the newest member of the OPAF Family of First Clinics was launched as part of the 2011 Amputee Coalition Conference in Kansas City. The clinic was led by renowned amputee rock climber, Ronnie Dickson and sponsored by Prosthetic & Orthotic Associates (POA). The event was held in Washington Square Park, directly across from the conference hotel, the Westin Crown Center.
Over 95 amputees attempted to climb the 25 foot rock wall, which was an outstanding turnout! Participants were harnessed and coached by Ronnie and staff to try and scale the wall with hand and foot grips. Some were more successful than others, but everyone came away with a smile and a feeling of accomplishment.
"Climbing is a very accessible sport for persons with disabilities. Even if it is something that participants only do once, it will be one more experience that they have accomplished and have under their belt. The lessons learned climbing can help other obstacles in life seem smaller in comparison so I believe these clinics are an asset to helping people with disabilities overcome all of their life challenges" said Ronnie Dickson.
Feedback from the event included such statements as "This was my dream after my amputation and I did better than I thought I would. THANK YOU!"
First Climb t-shirts were available for the first 50 climbers, sponsored by POA. A photographer from the Kansas City Star shot photos for over two hours during the event.
