Last Friday, with the assistance of The Lounsbury Adaptive Ski Program at Holiday Valley, I made a positive difference in someone’s life. I took Mike T. skiing for the very first time. And he loved it.

Mike is paraplegic. He suffered a back injury during work after being crushed by a ton of bricks on a construction site a few years ago. I’ve been representing Mike since it happened. I’ve watched Mike endure the pain of recovery. He’s done it with grace and rarely complained. He is the most positive person I’ve met under the circumstances.

I witnessed Mike endure the agony of his injury from the time he was first hospitalized. I have observed many of the daily challenges that come with being confined to a wheelchair. I’ve seen both of his legs spasm uncontrollably when getting in and out of a car. I’ve seen his catheter bag hanging next to his leg filling with urine. I’ve seen his chair blocked by inaccessible passageways, stairways, and curbs. I’ve seen him cry on occasion due to the emotional toll.

Together, Mike and I watched the defendants and defense counsel maneuver to avoid responsibility. Their acts included filing a fraudulent bankruptcy costing our client thousands of dollars in unnecessary attorney fees. I cringed witnessing the utter disregard for Mike’s devastating and life-altering physical conditions – that they caused. Fortunately, he is blessed with a loving life-partner and children who support him.

Last Friday, Mike’s shining spirit and will to live prevailed. It showed on the mountain. We took Mike skiing at Holiday Valley – snowstorm and all. We fit Mike in the Dynamique – a “sit-ski” with straps and tethers. We equipped him with outriggers to steer and taught him how to ski.

With the snow collecting on his beard and wind in his face, Mike smiled all the way down over and over again. We hooted and hollered with joy. I filled with pride. It was a long-time coming. He was excited. That morning, he really enjoyed life – on skis! It was an awesome feeling and an experience I hope he will soon repeat. I know we’ll never forget it. Keep it up, Mike!