With the wildfires raging in Colorado Springs, we’ve gotten an update from United States Paralympic coach Dave Denniston on what the mood is and the latest happening. Dennsiton was recently named the United States’ Paralympic Coach of the Year after his swimmers shredded the World Record books at the recent Paralympic Trials in Bismarck, North Dakota.
He lives in the evacuation zone and was rushed out of his home. Fortunately, he hasn’t been hit with any damage yet, but the danger is nowhere close to done.
Check out his perspective on the situation, and how he stays optimistic throughout. Be sure to check out the latest info from USA Swimming here about the status of their people, and how you can help people who have been displaced from the community:
I was able to go check out my place late Thursday night. When I arrived the firefighters mobile headquarter RV was sitting on the street right outside my apartment with two tankers full of water. I could see burn areas up the hill behind them less than 400 yards away. Within half a mile there are several buildings and homes that are completely gone, but I was relieved to see that my apartment was still standing. Even though my place looked untouched I was sure with the amount of smoke there was it would wreak inside. Bracing myself I opened the door and discovered that the place looked untouched (except for the mess I left getting out)!!! There wasn’t even a hint of smoke in the air inside and the complete sense of relief was overwhelming. I remain on pre-evacuation notice so I haven’t moved things or myself back in yet.
It is tough to be too joyful because there are several people I work with at the USOC as well as people I know from USA Swimming who have lost everything. In the last two days they have found out about the damage that was done and there is a real sense of community urgency to help each other out. Several Olympians and Paralympians are working with other employees and community organizations this weekend volunteering and helping anyway they can. Many of them taking a break from their training to help. Most of the city has a sense of relief that this thing is finally almost finished.
However, as I write this I can see from my office window smoke and fire still on the mountain above the city. (I’ve attached a picture of the view.) So it is clear that the fire is not done. Last report said 25% contained. This tragedy is far from over, but it is really giving the community an opportunity to gel and work together. I guess that’s just me, trying to find a positive in every horrible situation.
one time in beijing i watched dave shave jeff sommensato’s thighs. it was incredible.