From Russia With Gold

austin nelson is organizing this fundraiser.

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This March, I will be traveling to Khanty-Mansiysk, Russia to compete in the alpine skiing events at the 18th Winter Deaflympic Games. Sanctioned by the International Olympic Committee, there will be 449 athletes from 27 countries competing at this year's Games and with your help I will be one step closer to fulfilling my dream of Deaflympic GOLD! Having won Bronze in Super G at the most recent Deaflympics, my dream of becoming the first American male to win a Gold in alpine skiing couldn't be more anticipated.

Two and a half years ago, my life forever changed when I fell 60ft into a hidden crevasse while skiing in Valdez, Alaska, shattering my left leg and threatening my ability to ever ski again. After a grueling two hour rescue operation and undergoing multiple surgeries in three different hospitals, doctors were able to reconstruct my leg. I was told that I wouldn't be skiing for at least a few years and never at the same level, which pushed me to get back onto the slopes as soon as possible. Ten months later, I placed 5th in Giant Slalom at the 1st World Deaf Alpine Skiing Championship in Germany, and most recently won the Helly Hansen Battle in the Bowls this past March. With the Deaflympics quickly approaching, I've spent six weeks this summer skiing in Oregon and Chile and will continue training while coaching with the Aspen Valley Ski Club this winter. Your contribution will help pay for all of my travel, equipment, and training expenses. I will send a photo of myself racing at this Winter's Deaflympics to everyone who donates $100 or more.

Every dollar raised above my goal of $6k will be donated toward Hear The World Foundation to help offset costs of hearing aids for underprivileged children around the world.

THE ROAD TO RUSSIA

Bronze Medal Super-G Run at XVI Deaflympics 2007