I met  Ali ( a T5 SCI), in the Winter of '05.  I left a great job in the NorthWest and moved back to Colorado to become a skibum in hopes that divine intervention would lead me to my next path. Ali was on vacation with the Backup trust ( a group of 10-15 people who come to colorado from the UK to learn how to mono ski), and we met in a coffee shop when he so rudely interuppted a conversation I was having, only to woo me with his british cocky-ness and charm.

We were married 5 weeks later.

Fast forward through a year of good times and overall laughter.......Ali and I live in a town on the edge of the Foothills of Colorado, we do a lot of things together, love each other fiercely, and also have kept our individuality and independence. I guess, when it's right,...it's right.

In the beginning of our relationship, a woman who worked with and dated a mono ski instructor at Winter Park, offered me a ear to talk to, anytime I wanted it. I could ask her anything I was curious about.  At the time I didn't take her up on it, I did alot of searching on the internet and figuring things out with Ali on our own. But it was comforting to know her offer and openess were there if I needed them.

If there are any men or women who are new to dating a person with SCI, I want to extend the same offer. I would love to answer or help anyone who may need someone with experience, and understanding, to talk to. No question is ignorant, or stupid, or mean. Talking it out is sometimes all it takes.