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May 10, 2025Earlier this year I took my annual solo ski trip to Sestriere in the Italian Alps, and I was fortunate to witness something truly inspirational.
As I took to the slopes on my first day out, I heard the sound of loud music coming up behind me. While it’s not unusual for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy some music as they fly down the mountain, this was different.
I turned around to see a group of skiers wearing bright hazard vests over their ski gear, each emblazoned with the word ‘BLIND’ with the gentleman in the lead bearing the moniker ‘GUIDE’. It took my confused mind a couple of minutes to register just what I was looking at, as I watched them expertly traverse the piste and disappear from view. Blind skiers, led by a guide and the sound of music as they enjoyed an activity and experience that so many of us sighted individuals often take for granted. I was amazed, not just at what I saw, but also the immense skill with which they managed to make it down the hardest slopes (a lot better than I ever could!)
I was frequently treated to the sight and sound of what seemed to be numerous groups of blind skiers all across the Via Lattea ski domain.
Over the next couple of days as I made a valiant attempt to stay upright on my skis and work on my parallel turns, I was frequently treated to the sight and sound of what seemed to be numerous groups of blind skiers all across the Via Lattea ski domain. Following their guides and led by either song or a rhythmic tapping sound made by the leader clicking his ski poles together, they basked in the snow and enjoyed the frigid mountain air while garnering a healthy dose of adrenaline from their breathtaking runs downhill.
Each time I saw one of the groups, I couldn’t stop a smile from spreading across my face and an unbidden tear forming in the corner of my eye. I was moved beyond words at the strength, resilience, indomitable spirit and true Joie de Vivre of these amazing humans. They are a real testament to the ability of every person to overcome every obstacle and conquer every challenge.
Unfortunately, for privacy reasons and out of respect for their sentiments, I was unable to take any pictures or videos of these marvellous skiers, but their image is indelibly marked in my memories for eternity.
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Disha
Disha is a former corporate lawyer with a flair for writing. As an avid traveller, she is always seeking new adventures and loves telling stories about her globe trotting.
