June 18, 2020
The sixth step was the charm.
Adelle was five steps into her rock-climbing experience, Clovernook Center’s monthly Adaptive Sports event, and each maneuver gave her a case of the nerves. She wanted to stop.
The volunteers encouraged her gently to try just one more step, for momentum. “She blazed to the very top!” Adelle’s mom, Amy McFarland, said. “Then she went on to do two more climbs. It wasn’t easy for her, but she was determined, and the staff was extremely supportive. It was amazing to see her transition from being nervous to becoming confident in such a short period of time.”
The RockQuest event, held in conjunction with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, marked the kickoff of Clovernook Center’s Adaptive Sports program, which operates under its children’s recreation initiative. Our goal with the program is to embolden children to surmount the barrier of fear and celebrate their ability to accomplish a range of physical activities with joy.
Adelle embodied this reality with just a few steps at RockQuest, and it is likely going to lead her to other new activities and adventures, her mom said.
“The RockQuest experience was incredible. It definitely improved Adelle’s willingness to try new things,” she said. “We’ve referred to that experience with her several times already as a reminder that she can try new things and that she can do anything she puts her mind to.”
Clovernook Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired is looking forward to being able to hold group adaptive sports events in the future. Check back soon for upcoming events. Clovernook Center also needs volunteers. Let us know if you are interested!
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