Kris Keck is an angry young woman, and she’d argue that’s a good thing.
The 37-year-old Scottsdale resident has used a wheelchair ever since a car crash on her prom night.
The physical limitations frustrated her immediately. "When it first happened, I’d get mad and go to the gym and work out," she said. "Today, I’m so strong."
That strength should serve her well as she prepares to participate in Barrow Neurological Institute’s Day on the Lake. "Day at the Lake gives disabled individuals the opportunity to water ski, jet ski, kayak, row and fish," said event coordinator Alisa Sims.
The event is free for participants 8 and older. It is sponsored by Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix and local businesses.
Keck still "feels the need for speed" and has ruled out participating in kayaking, rowing and fishing.
"I like to go fast," she said as she outlined her plans to jet and water ski at Friday’s event.
Although acceptance comes with time, there is still a little fight in Keck.
"I am frustrated with people telling me I can’t do anything," Keck said. "I am human, and I want to have fun."
And she does have fun. In addition to working out daily and skiing, she recently took up tennis.
"I was an athlete before the accident, and I’m still one," she said.
Day on the Lake
When: 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday
Where: Bartlett Lake Marina
Reservations: (602) 406-3606
