OLYMPIC VALLEY — For many, skiing is about speed and excitement. But for a special group of participants at Palisades Tahoe on Thursday, it was about trust, courage, and experiencing something invisible yet deeply felt.
Thursday marked the 6th annual Blind Ski Day at Palisades Tahoe.
Robert Edwards was among the skiers taking part. It was only his second time skiing — and his first since losing his sight.
“I never skied before I was blind,” Edwards said. “I can’t describe the feeling. It’s just amazing.”
Edwards skied with a guide from Achieve Tahoe and was one of six skiers from Sacramento’s Society for the Blind joining the event.
Dr. Christian Serdahl, an ophthalmologist who helps lead the program, explained that each skier has a unique way of navigating the slopes.
“Some rely on verbal cues from their guides, while others use a pole for balance,” Dr. Serdahl said. “Spending a day with these folks, they’re no different than you or me. They just need a little extra help to get here. Once they’re here, they have a great time.”
For Dr. Serdahl, moments like these—helping someone feel snow for the first time—are powerful.
“Many of the people we bring up have never even touched snow before,” he said. “Seeing the joy on their faces is incredibly uplifting.”
Skiing demands bravery from everyone. But for those without sight, it requires even more.
“You can all do it, we can all do it. Come have fun, it’s absolutely amazing. I wouldn’t miss it,” Edwards said.
After six successful years, Dr. Serdahl hopes to grow the program to reach even more participants in the future.