Ski Smiles Announcement
I’m proud to announce my role as an ambassador for Ski Smiles, an organisation that encourages inclusive skiing for everyone.
Ski Smiles is operated by Donna Marshall, an incredibly inspirational lady who is aiming to make a positive change to the lives of young people who in Cardiff, by providing free ski tuition to children with disabilities.
Donna, whose daughter Aimiee, age 11, has Autism Spectrum Disorder; moderate learning difficulties; ADHD; pica syndrome and has limit movement of her wrist; due to synontosis of her ulna and radius -has experienced the positive benefit skiing has had on Aimee’s life and wants to help others.
I had the pleasure of skiing with Aimee in October 2015 at the Tamworth Snow Dome. My son and Aimee’s brother play in the same rugby team and the boys were preparing for a school ski trip. I encouraged Donna to get Aimee on the snow too and we enjoyed a great day.
Donna says “Ski Smiles, would never have been, if it wasn’t for Chris Lloyd. As you can imagine, Chris has his own daily battles, but from being the person he is and believing and encouraging Aimee. That act of kindness is now benefiting many more children and young adults. We are very proud to announce Chris Lloyd as our charity Ambassador.”
I’m honoured that my ski session with Aimee lead to her continuing her skiing and it had such a positive impact on her life that Ski Smiles has been formed.
Donna continues, “We are called Ski Smiles – Inclusive Skiing For All. We pride ourselves with breaking though barriers, providing opportunities in a safe environment. Helping and encouraging children with social growth, building confidence by interacting with others in an environment where differences and disabilities are accepted and welcome.”
Ski Smiles run and operate lessons at the Cardiff Ski and Snowboard Centre free of charge, where the costs for slope hire, equipment hire, and instruction are currently being met by Donna herself.
If you would like to volunteer or become a sponsor of Ski Smiles, I encourage you to get in contact with donna at contact@skismiles.org. Donna needs you help and support so more children can enjoy the freedom of skiing and take the confidence the sport provides into other aspects of their lives.
Click here to like the Ski Smiles Facebook Page and find out more.