Creating customized escapades with disability advocate Ed Jackson
In the heart of the Tien Shan mountains of Kyrgyzstan, a historic moment was recorded as Ed Jackson, a former professional rugby player turned adventurer, became the first climber with a disability to ascend a high altitude mountain.
Ed Jackson's journey, marked by resilience and determination, has been significantly shaped by his experience of severe disability. His newfound physical mobility has only strengthened his belief in the importance of adventure travel for people with disabilities.
Jackson, who suffered a spinal cord injury in 2017, was part of a team that undertook the groundbreaking expedition. For him, adventure travel offers profound perspective, challenge, and joy to people with disabilities, transforming travel experiences from mere checklists to moments of connection, growth, and gratitude.
The expedition was in aid of the Millimetres to Mountains Foundation and CDI Children at Risk, underscoring the humanitarian aspect of Jackson's endeavour.
The Berghaus Adapts project, an inspiring initiative that co-designs and reimagines outdoor kit with people who have disabilities, is a prime example of the strides being made in making adventure travel more accessible. Companies like REI Co-op, Disabled Adventure, and Accessibility Outdoors have also launched initiatives for adaptive adventure travel, utilizing technologies such as all-terrain wheelchairs, adaptive climbing gear, and augmented reality guides.
Creating space for conversations and adaptations is crucial for making trips more accessible. Jackson advises adventure holiday providers to adopt a mindset that does not assume what people with disabilities can or cannot do. Flexibility in itineraries, offering different kit options, and ensuring extra help when needed are steps that can make trips more inclusive.
Technology plays a significant role in creating a more accessible future for adventure travel. Live updates from off-grid locations and navigation apps for blind users are examples of how technology can help bridge gaps and make the outdoors more accessible. However, it's important to remember that technology should not remove all challenges in adventure travel but rather help people prepare for trips more safely and adapt to the wilderness.
Adventure is not just about the summit, but also about how one gets there and who one shares it with. Travelling with people who have disabilities can provide a deeper and more meaningful experience of a destination. Jackson believes that adventure travel offers a unique perspective, challenging stereotypes and fostering a sense of community.
The topic of accessibility in travel has gained traction, with companies like Emirates and Virgin Atlantic making changes for accessibility. As we move forward, it's essential to continue championing initiatives that make adventure travel more inclusive, ensuring that everyone can experience the transformative power of exploration. For Ed Jackson, travel is not just about ticking destinations off a list, but about connection, growth, and gratitude.
