Presley: Ski Bunny

On one day we do chemo, and the day next we ski! Presley always amazes me with her will to keep going. In less than 24 hours Presley had chemo in her port and then put under anaesthesia for an injection of chemotherapy in her spine, and then skied the slopes! She's my hero. Always a smile on her face.
Presley has been looking forward to this day for a while. 2 weeks ago we signed her up for some ski lessons through the National Ability Group. We took her to pick out a ski jacket that would keep her from getting wet, keep her warm, and some thermals. I wish they came in my size. She already had ski bibs and gloves. I love that Park City is only 30 min away! Utah is a skiers dream!
We got her skis and then met her ski instructor at 9 am. She helped Presley get a helmet and goggles and her lift ticket. She got to pick out a "buddy" to go with her on the slopes. She picked a cute bear! They put skis on and hit the bunny hill! Presley did 2 runs on the "magic carpet" ride and then moved on to the ski lift named "First Time". She did great. I skied alone for about an hour and 45 min. On my last run I saw her on the lift above me. I was so excited to see her on the lift and not back at the "magic carpet ride" I knew that was a good sign. I grabbed the camera and followed her up the hill. I was able to get a few pictures and video! Presley was so proud of herself. I was too. She has come a long way. To think that one year ago she could not walk and today she was skiing. I'm amazed at how well she fights back after getting chemo and the effects that it does to her body. I was a proud mom today. Tears come streaming down my face when I see that little fighter accomplish a task. I have always dreamed of teaching my young children to ski. I love children and before I had them I always loved the little 2-4 year old children skiing. Today that dream was a reality even if she is battling leukemia! A phrase we always repeat to each other "Take that Cancer!" Cancer didn't hold her back today.
Her instructor asked if she had skied before. She skied last year right after her 3rd birthday. It was only one day. Amy (Presley's instructor) was amazed at Presley's balance! It was not from her skiing last winter. Her balance is from her Strider (Balance Bike). We have encouraged and pushed her to keep active through her treatment. We love those strider bikes. Best $100.00 we spent on our children!