July 13, 2007

Genesis Offers Water Skiing To People With Physical Disabilities

DAVENPORT, Iowa – The Backwater Gamblers skiing club and the Genesis Therapeutic Recreation Department will make it possible for people with disabilities to enjoy water skiing for the fourth straight year.

More than 20 people with disabilities will participate in the Access to Waves Ski Clinic on Saturday, July 21 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.  This adaptive water skiing clinic promotes independence and allows people with physical disabilities to experience the thrill and excitement of water sports.

“We can’t thank the Backwater Gamblers enough for allowing us to offer this activity again this year,’’ said Glen Sancken, therapeutic recreation specialist, Genesis Medical Center, Davenport. “The Access to Waves Ski Clinic is a project the club is very passionate about and looks forward to.

“It’s one of their main community events. The reward for all of us is seeing the smiles and hearing the excitement from everyone who participates. It’s such a positive event for everyone.’’

The Backwater Gamblers supply boats, personal watercraft, the site and volunteers. The event is held at the club’s docks in Rock Island.

Using a large ski fitted with an appropriately sized frame or “cage’’ with a seat, people with disabilities, including spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy,
spina bifida, acquired brain injury or polio, or those who are legally blind or have had amputations can try water skiing. Volunteers follow on three-person, personal watercraft, so that help arrives immediately if there is a spill.

The Genesis Therapeutic Recreation Department helps patients use existing skills and interests to aid in the healing process. Recreation therapists develop treatment plans to promote the independent physical, cognitive, emotional and social functioning of a person who has been debilitated as a result of trauma or disease.

The clinic spots are full, but spectators are encouraged to attend the event, which will be held at 44th Street and Rock River Road in Rock Island.

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