Ten months ago, my 14-year-old son was injured in a bicycle accident. He suffered a traumatic brain injury causing his central nervous system to not work properly leaving him with the inability to feel or use his legs. While he benefited from traditional neuro physical therapies, he found them tedious and was often frustrated from his lack of progress. Two months ago, we were introduced to Dave Van Beek through his adaptive rock-climbing program at the Stronghold Gym in Los Angeles. From the very first conversation I had with Dave regarding my son he spoke only of what my son could do, not what he could not. Surrounded by his group of equally amazing volunteers Dave has literally changed our lives.

Not only has my son benefited from the physical demands of climbing but emotionally as well. Prior to his accident my son was an athlete, devastated by his injuries he slipped into depression. With climbing he has been able to break free of restraints, physically and emotionally, that have been holding him back.

My son has a newfound confidence and a passion for climbing. Something we never would have tried on our own. Dave has created a safe unbiased environment for children as well as adults to be the best they can be, to push themselves beyond what they thought they were capable of all the while believing in them wholeheartedly.

For this I am eternally grateful,
LW