AUBURN (NEWS CENTER Maine) — With our long snowy winters learning to ski is not only a tradition but a rite of passage for a lot of Maine kids.
But learning how to carve the mountain is out of reach for many kids and young adults with physical or developmental disabilities. Each winter though dozens of people with special needs are reaching new heights thanks to a very special ski coach.
Four afternoons a week this is where you will find Cindy Dubois.
She is guiding, watching and cheering on Ashley Low.
Cindy first taught Ashley to ski as a teenager. But since having surgery to remove a benign brain tumor -- they are back on the magic carpet. Anxiety and balance is a big struggle for Ashley as Cindy helps her find her courage.
'Cindy is calm she gives her that reassurance, she touches her should, she takes a step back and doesn't push her into it, said Ashley's mom Kin Low.
Cindy runs the Central Maine Adaptive Sports program at the Lost Valley Ski Resort. She and other trained volunteers, including her daughter Nicole help kids to adults with physical and developmental disabilities learn skills to hit the trails. When they show up for the first time, many have never been in skis before. Some have behavioral issues, anxiety and are non-verbal,
We work with their ability not their disability and their ability how they can communicate with me, said Cindy Dubois.
She sometimes uses sign language and help from parents when she first starts out. She also uses adaptive equipment such as tethers and a special wedge that keeps their skis together.
Many of Cindy's students become independent skiers and compete in the Special Olympics. She says some families need to realize the barriers fall away when their child takes a chance.
Over the years, Cindy has coached about 2,000 kids and adults. She wants to cut back but she says there is too much demand. She hopes other people will step up and volunteer with this special population.
If you would like more information about the Central Maine Adaptive Sports program at Lost Valley Ski Resort you can go to its website or Facebook page.