Two years ago Kevin Pearce was critically injured while training on the halfpipe in Park City, Utah. The talented and popular snowboarder was preparing for the Olympic qualifying events which were to take place the following weekend. One of the top American snowboarders had a good chance of making it on to the 2010 US Olympic Team. But with the massive head injury he sustained, any chance of competing in Vancouver was quickly dashed. More importantly, he was now in a fight for his life. Over the next few weeks, while his fellow competitors arrived in Vancouver, Pearce was in a Colorado hospital beginning rigorous physical therapy. The injury had left the once outgoing, competitive, and gifted athlete unable to talk or perform other everyday tasks. He suffered memory loss and vision impairment.
Over the past two years Pearce has been committed to his rehab. Much like the athlete who diligently trains and practices, he has been working to once again do the everyday activities most of us take for granted. His progress has been nothing short of admirable and tomorrow, December 13, he will be on a snowboard for the first time in two years.
Kevin Pearce will never again snowboard competitively again. His dream of making it to the Olympics will never be fulfilled. Yet he has accomplished something that is far better than any medal, trophy, or title: He’s alive and continuing to get better, stronger every day. It is, without question, a very exciting comeback.
The former Olympic hopeful is a true embodiment of the Olympic motto and the fire that burns within all Olympians. He has faced challenges more terrifying and difficult than most athletes, and done so valiantly, with poise, grit, and determination. All of us—athletes and fans alike, can look to Kevin Pearce for inspiration.
Swifter, Higher, Stronger.
Kevin, we are pulling for you!