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When Mark Wellman was 19 years old, he fell down a peak in the Sierra Nevada and became a paraplegic. However, Mark dreamed of climbing again. After his rehabilitation, he developed a new pioneering technology involving an adaptive pull-up bar, an ascender, and a special set of Teflon leg protectors. His partner would go up the rock face first and anchor the rope; Mark would follow, ascending slowly with his special system. Ultimately, Mark became the first paraplegic to climb El Capitan and Half Dome.

Hugh Herr, a brilliant climber, became lost on Mt. Washington for three days in a winter storm. His legs froze and they had to be amputated below the knee. After the accident, Hugh worked his way through MIT receiving a PHD in engineering. He developed new prosthetic legs made from light materials, with special rubber feet designed specifically for climbing. Ultimately, Hugh was ranked in the top ten climbers in the country; some say he is actually a better climber as an amputee than when he had legs. One magazine article called him the "First Six Million Dollar Man."

Stories like this abound. Often, working out of a garage, disabled people have pioneered amazing techniques and technologies, and using them, have gone on to shatter perceived barriers. Their accomplishments are not only personal triumphs, but blast open doors for those who come later.

In honor of this pioneering spirit, No Barriers USA will support individuals and organizations working to solve an existing challenge within the disabled community. We will assist the exploration of a new technique or technology which can open doors and benefit others. Recipients will be asked to present their results at a future NO BARRIERS FESTIVAL.

No Barriers USA will also support and endorse events in which innovative adaptive approaches are enabling people with challenges to push through their own personal barriers. This could include cutting-edge clinics, symposiums, forums, or adventurous projects.

For more information, please contact us at:
No Barriers USA
200 East Blithedale Avenue, Mill Valley, CA  94941
415-381-4160     lagbtv@msn.com or info@nobarriersusa.org