Empowering Inclusion with Ryan
When we called Luisa to talk about her son, Ryan, it was clear that the relationship her family shares with Teton Adaptive is more than just about providing access to recreational activities—it’s about creating meaningful opportunities for connection and independence.
Ryan, almost 12, lives with a complex genetic condition called Prader-Willi syndrome which affects many things including his balance and coordination. For many children, activities like skiing, sailing, or playing soccer come easily, but for Ryan, these are hurdles that require special equipment and support. Yet, with Teton Adaptive, Ryan has been able to take part in these very experiences, gaining not just skills but confidence and freedom.
“Nos está dando mucha oportunidad y muchas felicidad al pensar que cosas así están pasando como que antes no los." -Luisa
“It is giving us a lot of opportunity and a lot of happiness when we think that things like this are happening like we never did before.”
Luisa shared with us how, before discovering Teton Adaptive, Ryan often felt left out. “When we went to the park or the lake,” she said, “Ryan would just watch his friends and brother Angel, wishing he could join in. But now, he’s in the water, on the slopes, and enjoying all these moments he couldn’t before.”
From sailing at Palisades to skiing on local slopes, Ryan has begun to explore new passions and push past physical barriers. His favorite activities, Luisa says, include spending time in the water—“even though he doesn’t know how to swim, he loves it.” Ryan’s enthusiasm for sports is contagious, and his ability to keep up with his peers—whether it’s soccer or skiing—has grown exponentially with the support of adaptive equipment like specially designed bikes and sleds.
“Before, it was difficult,” Luisa explained. “Ryan was different from his brother Angel. His balance isn’t perfect, so he needed the right tools. Now, with Teton Adaptive, we don’t have to worry about leaving him out. He’s included, he’s enjoying himself, and that’s priceless.”
The Teton Adaptive team is not only helping Ryan have these experiences but also offering Luisa peace of mind. “It’s a big thing for us. Now we can plan activities as a family without worrying about whether Ryan can participate. We no longer have to think, ‘Can he do this?’ because we know the team at Teton Adaptive will help make it possible.”
This year, Ryan is looking forward to hitting the slopes again with his classmates. “He’s so excited about skiing in January,” Luisa said. “He can’t wait!” it’s moments like these, where Ryan gets to be just another kid enjoying the thrill of winter sports, that make the work we do at Teton Adaptive so meaningful.
For families like Ryan’s, the freedom to enjoy outdoor adventures together is a gift that goes beyond just recreation—it’s a chance to build memories, strengthen bonds, and give every child the opportunity to thrive.
