| | | |  | | Siobhan and Fiona | | |  | | Gerry's ready for the slopes | | |  | | Don't look down... | | |  | | Nottwil |
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| The idea of the Kick Start activity course is to tap into the proven benefits of venture activities as a
way to encourage and motivate individuals who have sustained a spinal cord injury. This is not about turning people into adventurers but rather to use it as a catalyst to motivate and encourage people
to look beyond their present personal expectations. | | | | Kick Start Programme - Ski Trip Switzerland 2009 | | | | |  | | March 2009 | | | Spinal Injuries Ireland have just returned from Nottwil in Switzerland where three participants tried their hand at Skiing for the first time as part of the Kick Start Program. Despite the cold air of the Alps the lads enjoyed the experience of the monoskiing but could have done with more time to perfect their style!
Not only did they get to ski but they also got the opportunity to meet some Swiss individuals with a spinal cord injury and also do some sight-seeing. We had the chance to visit a farmer with a spinal injury and his family in a place called Firbourg where he demonstrated how he adapted to farming post his injury. We also had the opportunity to witness a gentleman with SCI who demonstrated wood carving and we then had the pleasure of eating good Swiss food with our host family.
The trip would not have been possible without the support of John Leen who is now resident in Nottwil Switzerland. John, who is originally from Kerry, sustained a spinal cord injury back in the early eighties.
The participants flew into Zurich Airport and then travelled by Train to Nottwil. Despite the long journey everyone remained in good spirits and enjoyed a beer on arrival.
The feedback from those taking part was positive and we hope to get further feedback from all who travelled so that we can improve for the next trip. Spinal Injuries Ireland would like to thank all those who gave up their time to make this trip possible. John Leen in Nottwil for all his support on the ground, Fiona Marsh and Martin Hammond for giving up their free time and lending their support to Spinal Injuries Irelands’ Siobhan O’Driscoll.
If you are interested in challenging yourself through our Kick Start Program the next two activities, kayaking and scuba diving, are being organised now. | | |
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| | |  | | Marty |  | | Sean gets kitted up |  | | Sean in safe hands |  | | Thumbs up for the trip |
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