"I woke up this morning and something big was gone." :-(
That doesn't even begin to scratch the devastation we are feeling by the loss of our beloved father, grandfather, husband, uncle, cousin, colleague and friend.
Gary Klein was one of a kind. His presence will be missed in so many instances. I'll readily admit my father was my bedrock and my biggest supporter. On so many levels.
He was a beautiful soul who supported his friends and familes in whatever their pursuits. And by doing so, became a huge supporter of Vermont Adaptive over the last few years. VA is a nationally recognized organization that empowers people of all abilities through inclusive sports.
The real support began about a dozen years ago when I was on a road to nowhere and traveling fast. I was spiritually dead inside and was locked and loaded in a lifestyle that was not sustainable. I was either going to go in another direction or I was going to die. It’s really that black and white. I was saved by my father and others who would love me back to health – family and friends and new friends – who had travelled a similar path. I hit a hard bottom. But my dad. My hero was there to help.
I tell people I've seen him cry twice in my life - that was the first time. The second was recently when he saw the joy his granddaughters were having in his living room during a holiday party. We wish we could turn the clock back.
Gary shared in my journey and was grateful for the special people I met from Vermont Adaptive. People that didn’t know me from a hole in the wall that took time and effort to keep me moving through some very dark moments…where that voice I was working hard to quell was back in my head telling me I couldn’t do it; that I had no value; that I was worthless; and on and on. VA helped his boy. Which is why he helps VA.
I wasn't going to run Vermont this year. That's changed.
So if you can give a little to help out, I’m grateful. And if all you can give are caring thoughts, condolences and warm wishes – that works as well.
We love and miss Gary greatly. And we’re going to run Vermont hard in 2019!
Here’s some info on Vermont Adaptive:
Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that empowers people of all disabilities through inclusive sports and recreational programming regardless of ability to pay. In addition to sports, year round programming options integrate environmental, holistic wellness, and competitive training philosophies for people of all ages with cognitive, developmental, physical and emotional/behavioral disabilities. The organization believes sports and recreation provide a physical, mental and social experience that is immeasurable in promoting self-confidence and independence in an individual.
With nearly 400 active volunteer instructors, plus generous partners and sponsors, and an amazing base of clients and friends, Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports has been at the forefront of sports and recreation for those with disabilities in New England for over 30 years. Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports is committed to empowering individuals with disabilities. We promote independence and further equality through access and instruction to sports and recreational activities.
The VT 100 is one of Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports biggest fund raisers every year. For more information about Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports: www.vermontadaptive.org..