All Aboard.

Inspiration is the first word that comes to mind when spending time with Sandler. Regardless if you are privy to his story, Sandler’s pure determination is contagious. He will challenge your comfort zone, and convince you to try things that would otherwise seem impossible. For example, I recently found myself purchasing a skateboard with intent to ride it—believe me, I still think I am crazy.

I was sideline at the skatepark (our second home at this point) watching Sandler diligently attempt a trick and thought to myself, “Here’s a kid who’s got every odd against him, yet every single day he’s out here working to achieve whatever mental goal he has prepared for himself. The least I could do is take a few lessons and experience the challenge and reward of gliding around on a skateboard.”

I approached his mentor, Ben Sauer, and asked if he could teach me to skate—Without hesitation he said, “Absolutely!” To tell the truth, I was secretly hoping Ben would advise me to stick with spectating, but apparently he is up for a challenge and can now add teaching geriatrics to his resume. 

I was sporting my new helmet when I first told Sandler that he had inspired me to skate, and he looked a little confused. Thankfully, Sandler does not know or see age. Bless his heart, he thinks I am in my early twenties. After some thought, he said, “Mommy, I think you are going to do ‘gweat’ and be a pro!” As much as I appreciate his vote of confidence, I am certainly not going to be a pro, but I hope to be an ounce as determined as he is to ride that board and enjoy myself in the process.   

Sandler’s natural, positive reinforcement makes everyone feel they can accomplish anything. Despite my reluctance to get him out there for the world to meet, Sandler has been radiating confidence to others who have previously considered themselves “different.” I received a direct message from a kid who thanked Sandler for encouraging him to be himself and that challenges are nothing but a state of mind. Sandler’s Chase is a reminder that there is no dream that cannot be chased—if you ‘do you’ (Sandler’s credo) you can live that dream and achieve eternal happiness.

They say the only constant is change. We have found that to be true, but the other is: four wheels, a helmet, and lots of padding.

- Nikki