An Uncommon Challenge Program Lets The Disabled Get More Fun Out Of Life

After Gene Garrison lost both legs in a car accident 11 years ago, he figured that was the end of recreational fun.

But a friend coaxed him into giving wheelchair basketball a try, and the Spokane resident discovered he had fewer limitations than he thought. Now he plays on a nationally ranked basketball team, dabbles in wheelchair racing and tennis - even golfs on occasion.

And he proved Sunday he’s an old pro at water skiing.

Well, almost.

“I’ve done this before,” he said. “‘Expert’ might be a little strong.”

Garrison and about 20 other physically challenged water skiers spent the weekend at Clear Lake just west of Spokane, where they skied, paddled canoes and hummed around the lake on personal watercraft.

Pontoons ferried participants around the choppy lake. About 40 volunteers helped skiers in and out of the water, drove boats and soaked up the sun.

The 11th annual Ski Fest, sponsored by St. Luke’s Rehabilitation Institute, provides a rare chance for disabled people.

“For most of them, this is the only opportunity they have to do this,” said Garrison. “It fills a big void.”

St. Luke’s spokeswoman Pam Pyrc said the weekend shows participants one way to compensate for their disabilities.

“We want to show people that, after injuries or illness, they can still enjoy some of the greatest thrills in life,” she said.

Susan Curalli was feeling the thrill - literally.

“I really had a cream-out yesterday,” she grinned. But sore post-wipeout muscles didn’t keep her from going on the water Sunday. Although spina bifida put her in a wheelchair when she was too young to remember, Curalli’s been skiing for two years, and plays tennis.

“I’m always up for doing something different I don’t normally get to do,” she said.