First Descents was created in 2001 by professional kayaker, Brad Ludden, and the support of the Vail Valley Chamber and Tourism Bureau, Nike and other partners.
Each program is limited to 15 participants, ensuring individualized care and medical attention. All meals, accommodations and program activities are provided to participants free of charge.
Brad Ludden
Vail Valley, Colorado and Kalispell, Montana
18 years or older
Kayaking, white water rafting, rock climbing, fishing, hiking and more.
Inspirational speakers, team building exercises, sight-seeing, free-time and more.
Programs are limited to 15 participants per session with a 1:4 staff to participant ratio.
First Descents programs have 24-hour on-site medical support. Each program consists of an MD or Oncologist, an ER or Oncology nurse and an EMT. Medical staff participates in all activities, including those on water. All program locations are in communication with local emergency units, and are within 30 minutes of comprehensive medical care.
First Descents is free to all participants* and is funded through the generosity of private and corporate donations, fundraisers, grants and sponsorship alliances. First Descents is a U.S. 501 (c) (3) tax exempt organization, and all donations are tax-deductible.
*We ask that if individuals can provide their own cost of travel to and from programs that they do so. If that is not financially possible, travel scholarships are available through the First Descents office. Email info@firstdescents.org for more information.
Applicants are recruited or recommended by various contacts including primary care physicians, oncology teams, cancer related organizations, parents, friends and past participants. Participants are chosen based on space availability, application requirements and health status. All applicants must be cancer patients or survivors 18 years of age or older.
First Descents is currently reviewing applications for the upcoming program season. If you know of a young adult with cancer that is 18 years or older, please visit www.firstdescents.org for details on how to apply.
During the weeklong First Descents experience, young adults living with cancer will be empowered through kayaking, team building and other sports/activities to push their limits and face the challenges associated with living with cancer.
Emphasis is placed on daily goal setting, confidence workouts and teamwork exercises.
Each program is limited to 15 participants, ensuring individualized care, medical attention and an intimate experience with fellow First Descents participants. All meals, accommodations and program activities are provided to participants free of charge.
Your donation will help First Descents provide a life-changing experience for young adults with cancer. For more information or to make a donation, please visit www.firstdescents.org * or mail your donation to:
First Descents
P.O. Box 2193
Vail, CO 81658
*As no goods or services have been received, your donation is completely tax deductible to the extent allowed by the law. First Descents is a 501 (c) (3) organization.