Each year, we host two challenges: the Axis Plunge for our Eagle County patients, and the Axis Ascent for our Summit County patients.
These events are meant to be a celebration of the end of Summer, and for many patients, the end of a long year of recovery. They are also meant to be a personal challenge, and an inspiration to others who may be struggling. For some folks who are still in physical therapy, just putting one foot in front of the other might be a serious feat that took months of determined rehab and training. Others might be aiming for a personal high point, as they celebrate a full recovery. Each person is different, and we enable our patients, friends, and Axis family to explore their personal limits with a whole lot of support and fun.
Most importantly, it’s a great reminder of WHY we at Axis Sports Medicine do what we do. We want to enable everyone to enjoy getting outside in the beautiful Rocky Mountains, the same way that they did before their injury. You shouldn’t have to give up doing what you love. With hard work, dedication, and the right treatment, recovery IS possible in most cases. We will support you all the way to the Summit.
Axis Plunge
The Axis Plunge climbed the Stone Creek/Paulie’s Plunge trail, gaining 1,400 ft of elevation in just under 2 miles. The higher you go, the steeper the trail gets! We had 15 participants in this year’s Plunge. Our youngest participant this year was just 5 years old, climbing with his PT-mom, Meredith.
We also had an incredibly inspiring patient along, named Judy. Judy joined us for the Plunge, less than 6 weeks after her most recent knee surgery. She is no stranger to rehab: this was her SEVENTH knee surgery! Battling a very stiff knee, Judy pushed through discomfort on the hike with the goal of improved range of motion and increasing her strength. Her next goal is to be able to hit the slopes and ski this season, and she is laser-focused on following her physical therapy regimen to get there. Judy did amazing on our hike and inspires so many of us here at Axis. We know she will continue to succeed in her recovery because she has such a positive attitude and NEVER gives up! We are proud of you Judy!
Axis Ascent
The Axis Ascent never disappoints, and this year was no exception! We had 54 people join us as we hiked up 750 ft over 1.8 miles to Black Mountain Lodge at mid-mountain. 18 of those folks continued on (and up!) to tackle Little Lenawee, at 12,700 ft! That added another 1,700 ft of elevation gain to the challenge.
Our group was pretty special, including over a dozen patients who have had joint replacements (some have had more than one!).
The Ascent and Plunge are truly our two favorite events of the whole year. We are already looking forward to the camaraderie, challenge, and inspiration that await us next year!
