Laughter, tears, joy, fears . . . emotions that are felt during a First Descent. First Descents are defined in kayaking terms as “the first person to paddle a certain river or rapid” or it can be a Personal First Descent (PFD) defined as “the first time YOU experience that particular river or rapid, even if it has been paddled before.”  It doesn’t matter if it’s a FD or PFD, the same emotions percolate through the body.

There have been a lot of first descents in the Columbia River Gorge over the last month. Over 25 individuals, over a two week time frame, participated in a kayaking camp called “First Descents.” This isn’t just any camp where adrenaline junkies learn a new extreme sport . . . this is a camp specifically for cancer survivors to join forces, learn a new sport and leave with a new family of supporters.

I have been fortunate enough to experience 3 FD camps as counselor/instructor. Each camp so different than the one prior, but each sharing the same support, challenges and encouragement. Each day we work on kayaking skills and close the evening with a ‘campfire’–reflecting on the day and handing out the ‘days awards’.  I learn so much about the bumpy road these individuals have been on–some of whom are still on a pretty bumpy ride. These campers share with us information about their cancer, treatment, recovery, and how it has changed their lives’–changed their lives’ for the good, as it brought us all together for five days. The support and love formed within the few days of camp is incredible–and the love continues afterwards . . . usually through Facebook!

First Descents creates experiences in Colorado, Montana, Idaho, and Washington . . . last year they held 9 camps and this year there 15 camps. Together, we can create these experiences for more young adults. To send one camper to experience what FD is all about is $1000. These campers fill out applications to attend the camp and if accepted, they get their entire camp paid for.  Let’s make this possible for more cancer survivors . . . let’s make this a dream for someone who at some point in their life, even for just a second . . . the thought of ‘death’ came sooner than expected. We are all going to be affected by cancer during our lifetime–whether it’s a family member, friend or ourselves. Let’s support an organization that helps give back that HOPE, that CONFIDENCE, to take on the world when the world (for a quick second) took it all away.

-Heather Herbeck