Arlene Quezada
“Adversity has the effect of eliciting talents which,
in prosperous circumstances,
would have lain dormant.”
Admiringly, I looked at the picture knowing that I, someway, somehow, would love to do this. This all occurred when I was online surfing one evening. The picture was of a young man climbing a mountain. He had one prosthetic leg and the other leg normal; I was taken aback by the fact that he could be able to rock climb. If he could do it, I can do it I said to myself, prepping myself to do something rebellious, which is in my nature.
The following morning, excited as I was, I went to the website that was linked by the picture that I had seen the evening before. I read that First Descents was an outdoor non- profit organization, that provided challenging outdoor experiences for cancer survivors within the ages of 18 and 39. So I applied, hopeful that I would get to participate in this unique experience. I received my acceptance letter for this fully paid trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming to rock climb. I informed by mother of this adventure I was going to embark on and the excitement that was relevant in my voice made her feel excited for me.
The day that I arrived to camp seemed surreal to me at first. I met the camp advisor and the fellow campers. I had never met people my age, or anyone for that matter, who had survived cancer. I was overwhelmed to see that these young people who shared something with me that set us apart from everyone else. We had all gone through cancer and we were still here, a sign of the “fighter spirit” that we all possessed. We were informed that the next day we would begin rock climbing; I felt as if all these people would be in for a surprise when they witnessed how bad my actual balance was and how much help I would require.
The next day we began climbing and learning how to use the ropes that were attached to our bodies. I remember thinking, “did I, once again, involve myself in something that I cannot do?” Surprisingly, I required help but I was also able to do a lot on my own. I felt exhausted at the end of the day but it felt so fulfilling to reach the top of the mountain. It provided me with a satisfaction that I cannot explain nor understand. What helped me internally to reach the top of the rock? I knew that I had overcome a brain tumor and this was merely just a rock that can also be overcome. As I reached the top of the mountain, I felt proud of myself for accomplishing something that was so much bigger, powerful, and stronger than me.
The last day of rock climbing involved rappelling, where we would come down from the mountain while holding on to the rope. I remember looking down before I rappelled and feeling petrified. When I reached the ground at the bottom I then knew for certain that I was capable to do anything and everything set before me. I needed this experience to learn that I am a person that does not and will not ever give up, no matter what the circumstances. First Descents has given me the opportunity to learn more about who I am as a young woman, who yes has had cancer, but does not ever give in. I have learned that I am stronger than I ever thought I was. I have First Descents to thank for that.
Please help First Descents give cancer survivors a chance to learn more about themselves through the outdoor activities they provide by giving them a donation of any amount. God bless you!
Thanks a lot, Arlene
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