KamalRossa, meanwhile, was quick to recognize paddling's therapeutic benefits. "I'm out exercising my coordination and balance," she says. "I have fresh air. And then there's the mental therapeutic benefit of being out in nature."

Sunday's event will be based on principles espoused by Wilderness Inquiry which organizes adventure trips and travel opportunities that bring together people with and without disabilities. "By bringing people together like that, it enriches the experience for everybody" says [Nancy Saulsbury], who anticipates people with disabilities will attend Madison Paddle Fest with their families and friends. Wilderness Inquiry is providing four large Voyageur canoes, and "we'll have kayaks, we'll have other canoes, we'll have all kinds of people who are excited about helping folks get on the water."

"The limits on people, a lot of times, are in the minds of those looking at them," Saulsbury observes. "The limits aren't necessarily that person's own internal view of themselves, and I think that's one of the things that's so wonderful about this. It is about that person and their own perception of themselves and what they want to do with their life, and what kind of recreational activities might bring them joy."

Outdoor activities
Canoes & canoeing
Disabled people