A great reminder that a small step for some is a huge adventure for others.

As a young person, stepping into a busy climbing wall for the first time can be a daunting place; worried about how you may look to others or worried you might do or say the wrong thing, let alone the fear of the activity itself!

All these feelings are only increased when you are an adult trying something new, something different and something perceived as dangerous for the very first time.

But these fears were overcome in an incredible way last Thursday, at our climbing wall (Parkfield, Paignton) when Kerry bravely walked through the doors at Parkfield, she showed us and more importantly herself what she never knew she was capable of.

Having never even put on a harness before Kerry was wildly out of her ‘comfort zone’ but took the first steps anyway. Kerry was accompanied by her support worker and on a very busy evening at the climbing wall put on the equipment and guided by our two instructors Kerry was tightened up and already feeling like she was on an adventure as she strutted past all the hustle, bustle and noise made by the other climber’s enjoyment.

Kerry arrived at the far end of the wall and for the first time saw the challenge ahead of her; a five-meter vertical introduction wall sprinkled with brightly coloured holds. With a deep breath and encouragement Kerry took her first step off the ground.

With nothing but support around her and expert guidance Kerry went for her second foot.

There was no stopping her now. And with nothing but smiles Kerry continued with her quest of reaching even higher. Kerry moved slowly but surely further up the wall, having already surpassed her own expectations Kerry’s smile only grew along with her self-belief and confidence.

Kerry may not have made it past the reach of the instructors but for her to have already achieved so much that was a huge leap.

As instructors it’s often the high-octane activity and gnarly sessions we always talk about and hope for when entering into this great industry. But for Kerry this was just that. A leap away from her every day, an adventure into the unknown and a story to tell everyone about for a long while to come.

And there is rarely a better feeling for an instructor than to provide these new experiences for people and give someone the chance to surprise themselves. Kerry shows us all that being brave is an everyday activity for some people.

Well done Kerry from all at Reach!!!