Rediscovering the Outdoors

“Sports That Create Big Smiles” was the headline assigned by the Issaquah Press to Outdoors for All’s recent Demo Day at Lake Sammamish State Park. Darci Mozee and her son, Andy, were certainly no exception when it came to smiles.

The Mozees arrived at Lake Sammamish unsure of Darci’s ability to ride a bike. Due to effects of her Diabetes (Darci is now sight-impaired and an amputee), it had been 10 years since she had last been on a bike. Up until last Saturday, Darci had considered outdoor recreation a thing of the past.

Nevertheless, Outdoors for All staff educated Darci and Andy about the capabilities of a specialized side-by-side tandem cycle, assisted them onto the cycle and set them on their way. Lap after lap and smile after smile, Outdoors for All once again proved outdoor recreation is something for everyone. Darci exclaimed, “…this bike has given me some independence. It feels so great to get outdoors and exercise again.”

The June 18th Demo Day also included volunteer training for Outdoors for All’s water ski program. Participant Barry Long and a multitude of volunteers braved the cold water to ensure safety and fun in upcoming summer months.

To read more about Darci and the impact of the Outdoors for All mission on the lives of children and adults with disabilities, read the

 Issaquah Press Article

Happy people enjoying the outdoors.

Barry Long's empty wheelchair sits lakeside as he simultaneously waterskiis and trains volunteers.

And they're off!

Darci and Andy begin with registration.

The smiles that the Issaquah Press refers to...

Sarah Davis, Mac's mom wipes away tears of joy as Mac independently cycles through the park.