Full Circle on the Slopes: A Mother and Daughter’s Journey with BOEC

For Stephanie Orne and her daughter, Sara, skiing has always been a family tradition. What started as a mother teaching her young daughter to ski has now come full circle—Sara, a BOEC intern, is helping her mom rediscover the sport she once loved. Their story is one of perseverance, passion, and the undeniable power of adaptive recreation.

Stephanie was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis over 25 years ago. While she remained active, her mobility declined over the years and she “gave up” skiing 15 years ago. That changed this year when she participated in BOEC’s Adventures Within (AWI) program, an experience she describes as transformative.

“Skiing was my passion in my early adult years. After my experience with BOEC, I’m feeling that enthusiasm to ski again!” she shared.

For Stephanie, the AWI program wasn’t just about getting back on the slopes; it was about reconnecting with a community that fosters empowerment and possibility. “The BOEC community is supportive and uplifting,” she said.

“The time and care they take to make sure you have the right gear and adjustments make such a difference. The coaching was great, and everyone had a kind and positive attitude.”

Sara, who grew up in Seattle, developed a deep love for skiing at a young age, thanks to her mother’s encouragement. However, as she got older, she noticed a gap in accessibility for adaptive skiing. One of her main goals coming into the BOEC internship was to tether her mom in a sit-ski—a moment that was years in the making.

“I came to the BOEC so I could help give people the chance to access skiing and fall in love with the sport just like me,” Sara said. “At my old adaptive ski program, my mom was on a waitlist for an entire year because there weren’t enough volunteers who worked with sit skiers. So many people are denied the opportunity to experience joy on the mountain simply because there aren’t enough adaptive ski instructors.”

BOEC gave Sara the opportunity to be part of the solution, helping to create access and independence for adaptive skiers, including her own mother.

One of the most powerful moments of the experience for Sara was when her mom turned to her and asked if she could try mono-skiing instead of bi-skiing. “Her drive towards independence and love for the sport is just like mine,” Sara said proudly. “It felt amazing to see her feel capable and able to ski on her own.”

For Stephanie, skiing with Sara and her other daughter, Tessa, in Colorado was a dream come true.

“It was wonderful getting to see Sara in her element! She seems fulfilled and is surrounded by other kind and like-minded people. She has formed some great friendships and is living in a beautiful place,” she said.

Reflecting on their journey, Stephanie couldn’t help but marvel at how life had come full circle.

“I taught Sara to ski when she was four years old, and now she is teaching me! It’s so interesting how life works. I am so fortunate to share this experience with her.”

Sara’s experience at BOEC has solidified her long-term goal of becoming an occupational therapist. “This is the field I am passionate about, and I would like to have more tools to support people like my mom,” she said.

Stephanie couldn’t be prouder of her daughter’s path.

“I was thrilled for her when she got the BOEC internship. It combines Sara’s love of skiing with her desire to help people reach their full potential,” she said.

For those facing similar challenges, Stephanie encourages taking a leap of faith. “Be open to trying new things or modified/adapted things. Be willing to take risks. It can be scary, but if something works for you, it is so worth it!”

Her advice to anyone considering skiing with BOEC? “Do it! The BOEC community is incredible, and the experience is life-changing.”

For Stephanie and Sara, their time with BOEC was more than just skiing—it was a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the bonds that adventure can strengthen. As they continue to carve fresh tracks in the snow, one thing is clear: their journey on the slopes is far from over.