Have you ever wanted to learn how to do something so badly, only to be told you will never be able to learn how, due to limited physical capabilities. Better yet, imagine always wanting to travel someplace exciting and new that has a completely different climate, new scenery, and activities you have only dreamed about doing. But, you know you would never be able to afford it due to loosing your business during the Covid pandemic. These scenarios are just some of the things I've had to hear and overcome because of my blindness. I do not allow my disability define who I am as a person, or my abilities.

My name is Melissa and I am from Texas. About a month ago, I found out about an event called Ski For Light which takes place annually and one of their locations is in Colorado. This event hosts blind, visually and physically impaired individuals who wish to learn how to ski (with the aid of fully sighted and capable volunteer guides) who are skilled and trained to work with those whom they are guiding and assisting during this week long event. I truly feel I would not only have fun, I'd learn that I am capable of more than I could have ever thought. Not only would I be learning how to ski, I would be learning different independent skills as well, such as the feeling of empowerment.

Application forms for this event recently opened up and I would love the opportunity to attend the 2022 event being held January 30th through February 6th of 2022. An acceptance form was emailed out to me a few days ago along with information about booking flights, etc. I am aware that unfamiliar expenses are a huge part of traveling. And, I am also aware that food and lodging expenses are also a major part of traveling. The great news regarding lodging and food is that I was awarded a stipend which will pay for 60% of my lodging fee, which in this case, includes all meals. I was also able to find a great deal on Expedia and was able to book a round trip flight to Calorado for less than $200.00 (US). So, now that my boarding and airfare are taken care of, all that is left is to purchase ski attire and appropriate clothing for the snow. Living in Texas, it never really gets cold enough to put on a heavy snow jacket or winter boots. That being said, I don't have much clothing for the colder temps. Because this trip is going to be in a totally different climate, I will need to prepare for the cold with the right kind of attire and accessories. Having the right clothing for the cold and snowy weather for this trip is an added but crucial and necessary expense.

I started brainstorming different ways to obtain everything I would need for this trip. It was at this time that I quickly realized I would be limited to the things I’d be able to pull together, seeing as the holidays are also right around the corner. So, I looked into crowdfunding online and came across this awesome and unique platform.

All funds raised/donated from this campaign would go towards expenses directly related to the Ski For Light event. Specifically clothing, ski attire, accessories. and gear. All who contribute would receive a special thank you on my social media page which would be made public. And of course I would update everyone here as well. I am a very humble person and usually don't like asking for help of any kind, especially financial assistance. However, this event would be so much more than just a fun ski trip with friends. This event could possibly be a life changing, experience of a life time. And I am so looking forward to everything this trip would encompass.

If you'd prefer to purchase items I've added to a registry list specifically for my trip, the link is: Ski For Light- A Ski Trip For The Blind and Visually Impared - Amazon Custom Gift List - https://www.amazon.com/registries/custom/1ESL9IFCXHAM8/guest-view

Thank you for taking the time to visit my jcampaign