Students from the University of Colorado Physical Therapy Program recently participated in two inspiring events that celebrate accessibility, resilience, and community: the “What’s Your Everest” hike at Winter Park and an adaptive sports night at Chicken N Pickle in Thornton.

Organized by No Barriers, a nonprofit founded by Erik Weihenmayer, (the first blind individual to summit Mt. Everest), the “What’s Your Everest” event brought together individuals of all ages and abilities to climb toward a literal and symbolic summit. CU PT students from both first- and second-year cohorts volunteered to support participants in “rope teams,” fostering teamwork and inclusion. Some students even biked the four-mile trail to the summit using hand bikes, thanks to a partnership with the National Sports Center for the Disabled (NSCD).

Weihenmayer’s presence and speech at the event added a powerful layer of inspiration, reinforcing the mission of No Barriers: to help people overcome obstacles and live a life of purpose.

Later in the week, students joined the kickoff of a monthly adaptive sports series at Chicken N Pickle, hosted by Jacob Heilveil, founder of Adaptive Sports for All. A three-time Paralympian and global marathoner, Heilveil lost the use of his legs due to polio as an infant. His story and mission to build inclusive sports communities resonated deeply with attendees. He will be speaking at the upcoming Adaptive Sports Special Interest Group (SIG) meeting to share more about his journey and nonprofit.

These events exemplify the CU Physical Therapy Program’s commitment to inclusive care, community engagement, and adaptive practice, values that continue to shape the next generation of healthcare professionals.