Please join me in supporting this unbelievably wonderful organization whose mission is to enrich the quality of life for people with disabilities through year-round sport, recreation, and wellness. This is the 11^th year ASPNC has organized an ascent for participants up the Mount Washington auto road. Because of concerns surrounding CoVid-19 and it not feasible to maintain social distancing while assisting participants during a hike; this year participants will be driven up the auto road to enjoy sunrise at the summit because being adaptive is what we do!

The 2020 Sunrise Ascent holds a special place in my heart as I support “For the Love of Tom Norcott”. Tom introduced me to ASPNC in 2011 when he asked if I would assist him in loading the Tandem Ski onto the lift so he could take out a participant who was recovering from a stroke. After spending the afternoon as Tom’s assistant, I was hooked and my journey with ASPNC began. In April of this year, we were shocked and saddened to learn of the loss of Tom, one of the ASPNC founders. Tom volunteered year-round and left a smile on the faces of anyone he worked with – participants and volunteers alike.

My personal quest is to continue to touch lives as I share my passion for the outdoors as a volunteer working with our participants. I grew up with my Dad confined to a wheelchair unable to walk from the age of 16 when he was stuck with polio. Dad was an inspiration as he never let his handicap prevent him from getting out and being active. At the age of 69, Dad was the victim of a stroke which left him with speech aphasia. Our family rallied and together learned how to augment our communication skills. My Mom married into the role of caregiver and although soft-spoken, was the rock of our family. My parents taught us that a handicap is simply a challenge to work creatively to overcome rather than a hindrance.

Please join me in supporting ASPNC as a tribute to Tom and the smiles he left behind and in remembrance of my parents and the inspiration they taught!