Kelly VanderBeek's Blog

New Site, New Blog

2011-02-28T21:40:00.003-08:00

It's Snowing on my Site!!!!!

All New!

CLICK HERE to soak up the winter Wonderland.

Concussion Culture Must Change...Among Other Things

2011-02-10T18:22:00.003-08:00

Click this link to Read My Latest Blog:

Concussion Culture Must Change

I think this is one of the best Blogs I've ever written - hopefully it will strike a cord and evoke change.

Healthy is Normal...Right?

2011-01-28T06:19:00.001-08:00

New Blog Posting on CBC!

Topic: Healthy is Normal...Right?

Check it out:

http://www.cbc.ca/sports/blogs/kellyvanderbeek/2011/01/healthy-is-normal-right.html

CBC Blog: Surgery - Just What I Needed...Really

2011-01-17T13:36:00.005-08:00

Check out my latest Blog on CBC's Website:

http://www.cbc.ca/sports/blogs/kellyvanderbeek/2011/01/more-surgery-just-what-i-needed-really.html

I had a good day in Physio today - it was nice to get out of the house and feel a bit more independent.

My Week in Cell Phone Pictures

2011-01-16T11:48:00.006-08:00

Here we go again! But this time....much less pain and injury to bounce back from.

(Here are 4 days in Pictures around my Knee surgery Last Monday)

1 Day - Pre Op.
Last Sunday - Day before Surgery. Shoveling snow in this winter wonderland!

Day 1 Post Op.

Day 2 Post Op.

Day 3 Post OP - Funky new bandages that let you shower right away.

Some Pictures they gave me of the inside of my knee.

Bend on Day 4 Post Op!

Battle Field

2011-01-06T13:55:00.003-08:00

What a great way to Start the New Year! This is me on January 1st!

Well, this is it! All that talk about 2010 for so many years…and now…it’s all history. In many ways it’s a bizarre feeling looking back at 2010 – but I prefer to look forward and I’m excited to see what 2011 has in store for us all.

The holidays is always a favourite time of year from me. I was lucky enough to have a big family that kept our house filled with the holiday spirit – yes, that manic and hectic kind of spirit of course - is there any other kind? I’m not often with my siblings and family in Ontario so it was great to have time to catch up, chat, and enjoy the holiday treats my Mom made.

To kick off the New Year I skied Mt Baker the morning of the 1st. It was sunny, -2, and no wind made for a perfect morning. It’s days like that when I know, I’m nowhere near finished with this sport. I may be a bit crazy, but, I love it! It was a stark contrast to how I started 2010 – getting pumped with morphine to help me deal with the post-surgery pain.

Let’s just say this January 1^st was better, much, much, better.

Since last January our National Ski Team has been incredibly healthy. Nearly a full year passed without incident or injury. Sadly, that trend changed last week with some teammates going down. Closest to me being Kelly McBroom – lets all send her some healing vibes in Austria! Otherwise, the team seems to be finding its stride – especially on the technical side with personal bests being posted by nearly every athlete. It’s exciting to see new talent emerging!

Thinking back to last year makes me see how far I’ve come. From a dislocated knee with extensive damage to; skiing; lifting; biking; etc. Still, there is more improvement needed for me to be race ready.

I’m now in Calgary and we started the year with a group pow-wow.

I connected with our team doctors and physios to make a plan moving forward. It has become obvious that I will not race this season. Sad news I know, but smarter than trying to rush back and fall short.

With that knowledge, we looked critically at how the knee is doing and our best course of action moving forward. We’ve decided to go with some minor medical intervention as a push to get this knee race ready. Although it’s never desirable to have the docs poke around inside you, we’re all confident this will get me feeling strong heading into summer training.

I have made amazing improvements and was consistently getting better - but our sights are on the World stage. Luckily, I have a world class medical staff around me to get me there.

I’ll remain in Calgary for the month of January making sure every step we take is in the right direction.

In my own way, I’m excited about what lays ahead. I’m a fighter and I see every challenge as a battle field. I’m know I’m winning this battle and there’s no way I’m about to back out of this fight.

Bring it.

New Video!

2011-01-02T19:30:00.004-08:00

I made this video over the Holidays. I was watching old skiing footage and heard this song on the radio soon after - I just had to make this video!

You'll understand why when you see the correlation with the lyrics.

Good Fun!!!

TSN's 'Twas the Night Before Christmas'

2010-12-28T13:13:00.004-08:00

Check out TSN's...

'Twas The Night Before Christmas' Athlete Montage

http://watch.tsn.ca/featured/clip378304#clip393607

I'm reciting a line near the end!

Smiles,

Kelly

Randy Starkman's Blog - Toronto Star

2010-12-21T12:45:00.002-08:00

Randy Starkman (reporter for the Toronto Star) just wrote a blog about our conversation the other day.

Check it out!

http://thestar.blogs.com/olympics/

(Randy Starkman)

Canada's Olympic Hangover Cure

2010-12-14T12:25:00.003-08:00

Check out my latest Blog on CBC.

Topic: Olympic Hangover Cure

http://www.cbc.ca/sports/alpineskiing/

Also, be sure to support the CAN FUND Holiday Drive!!!

http://my.e2rm.com/personalPage.aspx?EventID=29252&LangPref=en-CA&RegistrationID=1039771

Free Movies In the 'Wack

2010-12-10T09:20:00.002-08:00

Come out to the new Cineplex in Chilliwack tomorrow morning 8:30am for;

free movies;

cheap popcorn & pop;

and help raise money for the Chilliwack Bruins Minor Hockey!

David and I will be on hand to sign Autographs and hand out posters/swag.

See you there!

Kelly & David

New Blog at CBC Site

2010-12-08T08:36:00.001-08:00

Put this link into your browser and see what I had to say about Lake Louise & getting back Racing!

http://www.cbc.ca/sports/blogs/kellyvanderbeek/2010/12/small-steps-towards-home.html

Winter Wonderland

2010-12-07T19:18:00.003-08:00

Here are some images I took while David was playing hockey at the Chateau Lake Louise.

Snow covered trees are always beautiful!

Frosty!

Hockey while the sun set.

The puck as seen through the mesh of the goal.

Now THIS IS CANADA!!!!!!!

KV is Back Skiing!!!!!!

2010-12-02T20:33:00.006-08:00

- - -Enjoy the Video!- - - -

Article Links & Pic From Skiing Today

2010-12-02T15:44:00.004-08:00

CBC Article - The Pain Game

http://www.cbc.ca/sports/amateur/story/2010/12/01/spf-athletes-injuries.html

Vancouver Sun Article:

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Vanderbeek+back+hill/3909648/story.html

This image is from DAY 3 of my return to snow.
It was great to spend the day skiing with my hubby, David!

Links, links, and more Links

2010-11-30T10:29:00.002-08:00

Check out all the amazing coverage and support I've received with my return to snow!

FIS - Video and Article:

www.fisalpine.com

Article in The Province:

http://www.theprovince.com/sports/Kelly+VanderBeek+takes+first+step+skiing+return/3901716/story.html

My Blog for CBC:

http://www.cbc.ca/sports/alpineskiing/

Today was my second day on skis and it went well! I did 4 runs today and I had my GS skis on - I could still turn them!

Like Coming Home...

2010-11-28T21:54:00.005-08:00

Yesterday was a spectacular day and the culmination of a years' worth of extremely hard work.

It was the day I skied for the first time since my crash on December 17, 2009.

I can only describe my return to snow as if I was finally 'Coming Home'.

This is me on the chairlift heading up for my first run!

Stretching it out - making sure I'm limbered up for the run!
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Myself and Dr. Bob Litchfield (the surgeon who put me back together). It was special being able to share this day with him, his family, and Kent Kobelka (team physio).

It was a beautiful morning for my first day back.
Skiing continues to take my breath away in all the right ways.

CBC & Big News

2010-11-27T13:55:00.004-08:00

I did some work with Doug Dirks and Scott Russell today during CBC's coverage of the Men's World Cup in Lake Louise. It was a spectacular day and it made me want to race more than ever. Being around the World Cup has been good for my soul.

BIG NEWS: Last night I received the ALL CLEAR from my surgeon, Dr. Litchfield and our physio Kent Kobelka. Tomorrow, Sunday morning, will be my first time clicking into my bindings since my crash Dec. 17, 2009. Litchfield and Kent will be joining me for the morning ski: I couldn't be in better hands.

I'll just be missing my hubby David; he's been such a big part of this recovery and I look forward to the first time I'll ski with him!

I'll let you know how the ski goes!

CTV's Canada AM - Short n Sweet

2010-11-25T08:30:00.005-08:00

Kelly (Me), Jeff Hutcheson, & a local longtime skier Eddie Hunter

This morning I was on CTV's Canada AM for a short 'n sweet moment to talk about the World Cup events here in Lake Louise. The men will be racing this weekend and the women next weekend.

Chilly Morning for a Work Party at Tamihi!

2010-11-21T12:18:00.005-08:00

This is a gate the kayakers go around for training: frozen solid.

Climbing ladders was part of the job this morning!

Helmet 2011 Season; Dinner

2010-11-20T20:46:00.003-08:00

The middle helmet is my latest design for the 2011 Season!

The others are the helmets I used over the last 2 years.

Dinner...I loved the colours in this pan! Now that's healthy eating.

Be sure to check out my written Blog at:

http://www.cbc.ca/sports/alpineskiing/

First Snow of the Season in Chilliwack!

2010-11-18T17:47:00.001-08:00

New Hat, Mouthguard, & Sponsors Meetings

2010-11-17T17:01:00.002-08:00

Today was a full day in all the right ways. I had a few meetings in Vancouver with sponsors that went well, I picked up my new Teck hat, picked up my new mouthguards at Dr. Hill's in Surrey, and finally home to train!

The gear is coming together...next step...starting my on-snow preparation so I can return to racing stronger than ever!

My New Teck Hat!

Therapy and Fundraising

2010-11-12T15:14:00.005-08:00

This was my own version of Therapy.

As I'm preparing to return to snow (yippee!!!)- I came across my Downhill Suit they had to cut off me in the Hospital after my crash. It brought back some emotions, so, I decided to do something about it! Since the suit was a throw away, I cut it up into small pieces. I then wrapped it up and threw it away.

It felt remarkably good.

Earlier today I was recording some clips and questions for the Tree of Hope Campaign that will run later this month. It raises funds for the Family & Children's Services of the Waterloo Region and this year I'm the Honorary Chair.

http://www.facswaterloo.org/html/TreeofHopeHome.html

Love Halloween

2010-11-01T09:06:00.004-07:00

The smallest kids are always the cutest during Halloween...but it's hard to resist the temptation to dress up yourself! David and I went out this weekend as Dr. 90210 (the reality TV show) and I was his candy striper. Lots of fun.

David as Dr. 90210.

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You never know who you'll run into at Halloween!

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OTR - Next Question Segments

2010-10-27T06:07:00.003-07:00

Here are a few images from Off the Record - Mike Janyk and I both shot our 'Next Question' segments yesterday.

Mike in the Hot seat.

Me, getting my makeup done for the show. My segment aired yesterday evening.
If you missed it, I'll try to get copy and post it on my blog soon!

Big Day in Toronto

2010-10-26T06:11:00.002-07:00

Our Team will have their official Launch at a press conference this morning.

Later in the day I'll be shooting Next Question with Michael Landsberg on Off The Record (OTR) - TSN.

I'll let you know when that interview will air.

Then finally, the day will wrap up with the Miele Mixer this evening!

More details to come...

Article Link - The Record

2010-10-25T14:34:00.003-07:00

Link to The Record's article on the KVR event yesterday:

http://news.therecord.com/Sports/article/799764

(Photographs by Mathew McCarthy)

Yeah KVR Kids Fit!!!!!

2010-10-24T19:51:00.005-07:00

I flew to Ontario yesterday and was asked a common question during travel, “Are you traveling for work?" Once again, I had to pause and think about it. Ya…I suppose I’m traveling for work, but wow, my work is fabulous because it feels like anything but work.

Last night is one example of why that is....

Yesterday evening I got to play and hang out with over 40 kids and their parents. We ran through the woods, played and kept fit! This is the KVR Kids Fit crew and I felt honoured to be their guest. Erica Bassin has been the heart of this group and it’s growing rapidly with Peter and Jeff also acting as coaches/trainers.

Wow, I felt inspired!!!! I was smiling for hours straight!!!

Check out the images below - what fun!

Erica, Syree, Annemieke and me! We had a great evening!

Below are all our Minute to Win it style games. Loads of laughs all around!

The parents were right in there competing! (Although the Dad's may not admit it; the Mom's Team won in overall points for the night!)

Flexibility was not the Dads' strong suit.

This was serious business!

How fast can you pull out tissue one at a time?...

This was my team for the night, Team Mascots!!!!

Balancing apples is harder than it appears.

Today, I’m off to Toronto and will be catching up with sponsors, media, and friends.

OTR appearance is coming soon - I'll keep you posted!

World Cup Season has Begun!!!

2010-10-23T08:51:00.004-07:00

Yeah Mitch!!!!

Congratulations on Finishing 13th in Solden, Austria (2nd on her second run!)!!!!

Patience is a Virtue...

2010-10-22T21:04:00.007-07:00

As I drove past Lake Louise, on my way to Calgary for a 10 day training camp, I was sad to know I wouldn't be racing there this year for the first time in 10years. I sat in the car with a swollen knee, and it was the first time I'd really accepted this truth. Until now, I had held onto the possibility that I could be ready in time for Louise.

While the physiotherapists and medical staff are extremely happy with my progress I’m a bit anxious as this recovery hasn’t lived up to my expectations (even if I was expecting to have super women powers…hey…I like to set the bar high!). Although I had hoped to be farther along in my recovery, everyone around me seems very optimistic. We’re all working hard to get me back on the World Cup podium, then, onto Sochi stronger than ever.

As you can imagine, the competitor in me is struggling to be patient with my recovery but I know it’ll pay off.

My strength and aerobic power are doing great and improving with every passing week. Two weeks ago I even requested a new program since I felt the one I was doing had gotten too easy. We added more advanced jumping and more volume to the program. I was sore but able to do it all which felt great. However, after a week of this program my knee said it was too much. It swelled, forcing me to take a few days off the knee before resuming my training. This isn’t a big hiccup, but it was a reminder that patience truly is a virtue!

As of now, we’re hoping to get me back on skis in early December. From there we will build towards getting into gates and finally racing. Our whole approach to this recovery is to have a full recovery, so we’re being sure we don’t skip any steps.

I am extremely lucky to have such experience staff around me like Kobelka (physio), Jordan (trainer), and a few doctors including Irving and Litchfield helping me on my road back to the World Cup. And on the ‘Brain/Emotional’ Side of this recovery I’m also working just as hard with equally as amazing people. (Plus a Hubby who is my biggest supporter through all of this:)

I truly am excited that it’s not long now before I’ll be back on snow.

Up next, a short visit to Ontario for some fun times with KVR and a few Gala/Media events!

Patiently Optimistic,

Kelly

Note:

I’ll be OTR (Off the Record, TSN) next week!

Likely on Tuesday’s show - I’ll Twitter/Facebook updates so you’ll know when to tune in!

Check out this Article:

http://www.vancouversun.com/sports/VanderBeek+finds+release+behind+lens/3682533/story.html

Calgary & Kananaskis Pictures

2010-10-18T20:13:00.003-07:00

David - still rocking it in the boat.
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I loved this shot of the rocks with the water lapping over them.
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David; looking cute as ever by the river.
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This was the morning after the blizzard Calgary got hit with. As you can see by the crystals...it was cold. Good for snow-making in Nakiska & Lake Louise...not so good for David in the water!
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This is Taos - Mike & Jill's dog...whom is spoiled like crazy but oh so cute!

Dew on the Grass & Tasty Cookie Recipe

2010-10-11T13:12:00.004-07:00

I took this picture earlier this morning - the dew on the grass was so beautiful.
(This also reminded me it's about time to cut my lawn!)
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On another note - this is my new favourite Cookie recipe!

Check it out:
http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/chewy-molasses-spice-cookies-recipe?click=recipe_sr

Thanksgiving David & Kelly Style

2010-10-10T21:16:00.006-07:00

The Best of Thanksgiving; Family, Friends & Lounge time and watching Hockey.
Now that's a lot to be thankful for!

Little Quynn's Getting Bigger!

2010-10-04T13:04:00.003-07:00

David and I were recently in Victoria visiting Gary, Aryn, and our niece Quynn. It was fun being around family and we look forward to another block together around Thanksgiving. As always, I'm taking pictures and learning so much about this art form. I continue to fall more in love with this form of expression.

As for training; my knee is stronger each week and I've now begun a full training program! It's going well and I'm happy to see my knee push itself in new movements gaining in confidence and strength.

Baby Quynn is so beautiful!!! As her Aunt I may be biased...but come on...how cute!

Raising Money & Golfing

2010-09-28T09:44:00.006-07:00

I was happy to say I was able to walk a full 18 holes yesterday while helping raise money for Camp Goodtimes and Right to Play.

Here's a link to the tournament's web page: http://www.campgoodtimesgolf.ca/

We lucked out with the weather; getting the whole round in between when the rain was falling.

These Canaccord men and I enjoyed a great round of Golf. Especially when things got exciting and the betting began. Mat made a 45foot put to win $1000...only to say it would go to me right before he hit the put! Pretty crazy times fun times.

Golfing Again!

2010-09-22T16:02:00.005-07:00

I was worried my left knee wouldn't be able to take the twisting involed in a golf swing....that is..until today!

This morning I went out and played 9 holes with David, Gary and Diane. We had a wonderful time and my knee had no trouble. I hit some great shots...which worries me...I may have used up all my good shots...and I have a charity tournament next week where I'll need them!

So it goes with golf....I'll let you know next week if I can find my swing again.

Beautiful Sunday Morning in BC

2010-09-19T11:27:00.002-07:00

The view from my street.
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Another view from my street.
(After this walk with my Hubby he made Crepes....yes...I am the luckiest girl alive:)
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This was right in my backyard...so pretty.

In Vancouver for the Miele/Holmenkol Event

2010-09-17T15:04:00.004-07:00

David and I by the sea in Vancouver.
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A beautiful rainbow surrounded the sun in Vancouver.

Recovery - Physical and Mental

2010-09-16T10:05:00.006-07:00

There are moments I’m overcome with emotion. When something catches my attention and draws memories from my fateful crash on December 17^th. It can be a piece of clothing I was wearing that day; the number my skis were labelled with; or watching someone be overcome with passion from their own sporting pursuits.

Most who know me know that I am a passionate person and athlete. I can be overcome with emotion for my own success as well others’ success. Even watching a complete stranger achieve their own goals fills me with emotion as I continue to dream big myself.

Passion can be an amazing tool, but it can also turn on you. I became at peace with my crash and injury quite early but this hasn’t meant that the process of morning and adapting hasn’t continued. These moments where I’m overcome with emotion tell me there is still more I must face looking backward before I’ll be able to move forward. The web of emotions from this crash are far reaching and ever present as my knee reminds me in every step I take.

These floods of emotion are seemingly a part of my process. Going through them, and facing these emotions will help me return to snow stronger than ever before. However, I also know, if I leave any rock unturned physically and mentally it may eat me from the inside out. I’m dedicated to this process of facing these fears and memories head on – I know it will pay off when my feet touch snow again.

As for my knee itself – well it’s doing awesome! And, instead of explaining my knee's condition, I thought I’d show you with some images that David took this morning (below).

Best Wishes & Smiles,

Kelly

One Legged Squats are easy again! Plus my scars are barely visible which bodes well for the healing that's occurred in the joint!
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Child's Pose in Yoga - Look at that knee bend! Oh ya baby...that took a lot of work!
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Balancing on the Bosu.

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A Few Final Images From Tacen

2010-09-13T13:39:00.002-07:00

It was an amazing crowd on Sunday!!! What energy!!!!
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This is Team USA. The Team event is pretty spectacular!
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Team Canada!!! Go Boys Go!!!

Team Canada during their Team Event. David, John, and Ben did an amazingly fast run for never training this event!

Great Result for Jessica!

2010-09-11T08:40:00.003-07:00

We cheered Jess on like crazy!
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Jess exiting the first upstream, with a camera in the foreground filming her; she finished 19th.

Arghh...Sport Can be so Frustrating

2010-09-10T11:38:00.011-07:00

A sign advertising the race in Tacen.

Today David competed in the World Championships in Tacen, Slovenia. The two runs today were to qualify for the semi-finals on Sunday.

Even with some of the fastest splits, David was unable to qualify due to mistakes that were simply insurmountable...even with how well he is currently paddling. It's so hard to be on the sidelines, knowing how hard he works, yet watching small errors become huge errors as the river (and sport) have no mercy.

There are no do overs in this arena.

The similarities between ski racing and whitewater continue to baffle me. Unlike most sports, you get one shot. There are a million variables, meaning you have to make a million split decision during the 90seconds it takes you to complete a run. You can win every split, but one mistake can be your downfall. Today Michael Kurt, who had podiums in 50% of the World Cups this year and finished 2nd in the Overall World Cup also missed qualifying for the semis. As did John Hastings from Canada, 8th in the overall World Cup. I mention these athletes simply as a demonstration to how similar it is to ski racing. On any given day, you can be on top of the podium or you can be out of the game entirely.

Yet, there are some athletes who have figured out a level of consistency that is truly remarkable. It's amazing to watch such performances.

Sport can inspire yet it can also bring you to your knees. I suppose that's why we love it so.

An exciting and loud crowd to cheer on the competitors.
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Many, many, many countries are attending these Worlds.
--
Huw from GB is staring down the upstream gate during inspection.
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Dr.90210

2010-09-08T04:55:00.003-07:00

Here in Slovenia they have a surprising amount of English TV. Which is great, but also funny. Many of the shows are reality based and almost all of them are a few years old.

The show that I've seen the most of while here (it's on almost all the time!) is Dr. 90210. I hadn't watched this show before and only knew the main Doctor in it from clips on TMZ.

Anyhow, this show has just made me feel a bit ill in regards to elective surgery. So far, I've needed shoulder and knee surgery in my career and I'm not a fan of the operating room. It's the LAST place I want to end up in. Yet, in this show, people are choosing to go under the knife again and again. It can be hard for me to watch, especially, when so many of these women are so beautiful already.

Anyhow, just some ramblings from here in Europe....

Link...

2010-09-08T03:45:00.000-07:00

http://www.123result.com/LiveVideo.aspx?EventId=000154&User=slovenia&Season=CS_2010

Past this link to see/watch the World Champs for David and crew!

You Never Know What You're Going to See...

2010-09-08T03:31:00.004-07:00

The Opening Ceremonies for the Canoe/Kayak World Championships in Ljubljana were very entertaining! You never knew what you were going to see! Above is the Mascot for the event...pretty funny!

Self Portrait in a mirror coming home from the opening ceremonies.

Evening Walk

2010-09-06T02:53:00.001-07:00

David and I went for a nice walk yesterday evening, this is a very pretty area.

David, Pizza & Ljubljana

2010-09-05T06:56:00.003-07:00

This pizza was Huge...David (and I) Love our Pizza!
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That's me, on a beautiful Sunday in Ljubljana.
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David and his coach Michal.
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More images of David in Tacen.

More from Tacen

2010-09-03T11:29:00.003-07:00

This image is from earlier today. Everyone seems to have arrived!

Tacen - Slovenija

2010-09-01T04:33:00.003-07:00

Tacen is, in my opinion, the most beautiful site the the whitewater World Cup visits. Everyone is now arriving as final preparations for the World Championships being.

Michael and John - Canadian Team Coaches
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This is where the medals will be presented.

Tacen is like a Roman Amphitheater for Whitewater.
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GoodBye Opa

2010-08-31T11:46:00.001-07:00

Opa passed away earlier this morning. He will be missed by his whole family, especially by his wife Rita.

Opa & Family

2010-08-30T13:16:00.006-07:00

Well, this was a short visit to Ontario with last minute changes to flight itineraries to make it happen. I wanted to see my Opa as things have taken a turn for the worse. He was lucid for about 30min during my visit, in which it was great to connect with him. He has been constantly surrounded by family and the highlight was a trip to the cottage last week. He has made his wishes known and the whole family is supporting him in this final journey. We love you Opa and you will be missed.

This image, above, is from one month ago when David, Dad and I visited Opa.

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My parents celebrated their 30th wedding Anniversary today. Us kids, Laura, Mark, Jeff, and I got them two dozen roses to congratulate them. No flowers or card will ever be enough to thank them for everything they've done for us!

A Few Images...

2010-08-26T21:31:00.003-07:00

The last few days have been filled with sorting through my office; working out; and taking care of my knee. All in all, I've kept super busy! I did get time to take a few pictures though....

I finally got around to the fan mail that has been piling up over the last year. So, for everyone who's written me, a response is now in the mail!
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My little neighbours! What Cuties!!!

July & August 2010 in PIctures

2010-08-24T08:51:00.016-07:00

Yesterday I was in Vancouver recording/shooting a promotional piece for Teck. It was at Hyphen Communications and these guys were huge photography buffs...so I had a great time and learned whatever I could while there!

Here, I'm recording the script for the video...new experience for me but I enjoyed it. No one likes the sound of their own voice though...so I hope it's ok!

Calgary Gymp Camp...starring Anna, Larisa and Kelly!

Gymp camp is Rocking it Rocky Style!

Larisa & Anna

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Canadian Snowbirds Giving us a show awaiting our Flight out of Abbotsford

Can you see the moon?.... No photoshop required. Isn't that amazing!

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David and I officially Opened the Chilliwack Fair this year!

And People tell me I'm crazy!

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Then, A Trip to Ontario with Wedding Parties & David's National Championships
....which he won:)

National Champs were held on the Gull River. A beautiful site!

Not much can beat being in a boat on a calm evening. (except perhaps waterskiing on a calm evening!..but...that will have to wait till next year for me...)

I LOOOOVVVVEEE Ontario Cottage Life. We stayed at Ed's Shack...which wasn't at all like a shack! It was wonderful for my Ontario Soul.

What an awesome family! My brother Jeff (far left) is now in the Military!!!!!! Go Jeff Go!!! I'm so proud of you!!!!!! (as you may be able to tell by all these exclamation points)

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My Parents hosted our Ontario wedding celebration...loads of fun!

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David and I are now proud Uncle and Aunt to Quynn Watson Ford!
Congratulations Aryn!!!!!!

I love this shot...such cute feet!

Summer Update

2010-07-06T17:16:00.003-07:00

I hope this e-mail finds you all lightly bronzed after some well deserved time in the sun! I have been out on my bike more and more and find I have a sock tan! (Something to say for someone as pale as me!)

Since my last update I have spent time in Calgary with our team’s physios, trainers, and doctors; I have been home; and I have travelled with David helping out where I can on his World Cup tour. It’s amazing how similar David’s tour is like ski racing – I guess if we’re considered the winter circus they’re the summer circus equivalent.

Calgary

My time in Calgary was great. It was one week of physio and fitness. I also caught up with most of our men’s team as they trained. Seeing the men’s team and how they’re working together made me realize their team hasn’t changed much heading into this next quadrennial. A stark comparison to the women’s side as we have seen many changes in the last year. I’m looking forward to working with our new staff and with a group of athletes who are extremely motivated! Still, I will miss some of our coaches who have moved on and especially the athletes who are now travelling new paths.

Knee

As for my knee, they said it is doing well and about where they expected it to be. It will be a longer recovery than I had hoped, however, I’m still heading towards a healthy knee for ski racing. At the end of my week in Calgary I had an injection in my knee to help get is moving a bit smoother. It seems to be helping and keeping my knee moving forward in its recovery. My bending is still improving slowly. They aren’t too worried about it now since I have a very useful range of motion and more than enough range to be a ski racer. My yoga poses may suffer a little…but hey…a small price to pay for rocking it out on the ski hills!

Europe

My time in Europe with David was great. I bought a cheap bike there (costing about $70 CDN….so you can imagine that it wasn’t exactly high quality). Yet it was its quirky cheapness that made me love that bike (knowing I wouldn’t be using it long helped as well!) It was great to have though and I enjoyed riding in Europe. That was my first time seeing Europe from a bike seat and I fell in love with riding there. I also took some pictures while there as I continue to enjoy my pursuits to grow as a photographer. It’s a wonderful art and one I’m continuing to fall more in love with. As is always the case with sport David had some good days and challenging days. Ah, the joys of highs and lows in sport! He is fit and fast though – so it’s just a matter of finding the race gear and tweaking a few equipment issues.

Article

There is also a great article on the FIS Alpine website if you care to check it out:

http://www.fisalpine.com/news/the-unsinkable-kelly-vanderbeek,792.html

It also links from the front page of the FIS Alpine at:

www.fisalpine.com

Otherwise, I’m doing well and enjoying some sunshine!

Cheers,

Kelly

David's Team Trials

2010-05-27T12:06:00.006-07:00

Well, David has once again qualified for the World Cup and World Championship team with a great weekend of racing. David struggled to find his race gear on Saturday but came through with very fast runs on Sunday showing he's right on pace for the summer!

Here are a few images I took from the weekend:

Milestones & Injury

2010-05-27T12:04:00.001-07:00

Since my last blog there have been some promising developments with my knee and lots of changes within Alpine Canada.

First, let’s talk knees.

The milestones of injury have included such exciting moments as; the first day I wore jeans; when my foot had a normal colour while standing; the day I ditched the crutches; did a revolution on a bike; climbed the stairs normally; first workout where I broke a sweat…etc. Most of these milestones are rather small but they are still reasons to celebrate. These daily advances keep my focus on the positive as I slowly improve. Since I’ve been able to start biking outside my leg muscles have started to return. I have very cute little muscles now! (oh so feminine…:) I’m having loads of fun outside and enjoying the feeling of filling my lungs with fresh air.

I’m currently in Whistler supporting David as he prepares for his team selection for the World Championships. It’s been great having this time together and we’ve both fallen even more in love with this part of the world. Now…if only I could win the lottery and retire to luxury here in Whistler!

My knee is at 130degrees of flexion and this range is becoming healthier and smoother every week. I’m working with Andree Lavoie (she was a physio therapist with Alpine Canada for over 15years) here in Whistler and we’re plugging along. Although I always wish this process was faster she seems pretty happy with what she sees.

A New Team

Many of you may have heard through the media that there have been a lot of changes within my team and the organization at Alpine Canada. My world will certainly look different – especially with the retirement of two of my teammates. Emily Brydon and Shona Rubens have hung up their race skis to pursue other interests. I’m sad to them go and I will miss them terribly on the tour. Still, I now we will remain lifelong friends and wish them nothing but the best moving forward.

Our coaching staff is also completely different. I’m looking forward to seeing how these changes come together and what the new team dynamic will look like. Next season will be a fresh start in many respects and I look forward to everything that that will bring to the table.

As far as getting back on my skis…it’ll be another few weeks before we’ll start looking at timelines. But I know with each passing day I’m getting closer to arching some turns on the white stuff. For now, I’m happy to feel the sun on my face, the air in my lungs, and to watch my muscles rebuild. It’s a lot of hard work, but the milestones keep me going. Next week – a marathon! (Ha ha, just kidding)

Cheers,

Kelly

Spring, Inspiring K1's, Knees

2010-03-25T10:42:00.002-07:00

Spring has sprung here in BC. Although we had bouts of spring throughout…well, let’s face it, all winter….it seems as though springtime has truly arrived. With the temperatures reaching 18 degrees and the sun packing some heat, the snow peaked mountains are going to be green shortly. I’m still enjoying my time at home as we begin planning the summer/fall. It seems as though life is getting back to normal as I’m becoming more able bodied.

Inspiring K1’s

I spent the last weekend in Trail and Rossland, British Columbia. I was there representing Teck and getting to meet and work with over 200 K1’s (meaning 11 and 12 year old ski racers). It was the BC Championships and the event was great. I spoke at the banquet and handed out medals…in awe at how good these kids were. I saw something in every kid’s skiing that they could build on. I know how long the road it is to the World Cup, but it’s all a matter of putting together their own jigsaw puzzle. And these kids are starting to collect the pieces.

Since my injury I’ve watched a lot of ski racing. Before the Olympics, during the Olympics, and post Olympics with the exciting finish at the World Cup Finals. Watching skiing through a TV is only so exciting though. It was seeing these kids race over the weekend, on a sunny, warm, hard snow, day that really lit the fire inside me. Wow, did I ever want to be out on the hill with those kids. Ripping around, hitting the gates, and feeling the thrill of arching a turn with power.

Trail’s Teck Operations also presenting me with an honorary, solid silver, medal. It was extremely heart warming to know they thought of me enough to make this. I was extremely flattered to receive such a unique and distinct medal – truly one of a kind.

Knee Update

As for my knee, there have been a few progressions since my last blog. I met with Dr. McCormack, the top orthopaedic surgeon here in Vancouver, yesterday. My knee’s progression has hit a bit of a plateau in regards to how far I can bend it (flexion). I’m also noticing limits with my extension. These facts, combined with the timing of being 3 months out from my surgery, means they’re going to intervene. It’s now in the works to plan a manipulation under anaesthetic and likely a scope as well. I’m confident that this will be the turning point in my recovery.

Although I worked extremely hard to avoid such intervention, this is where I’m at. Still, my knee looks solid and on the road to a full recovery.

Till next time,

Kelly

Plunking Along

2010-03-16T16:21:00.002-07:00

I can’t believe we’ve already passed the middle of March. I have really enjoyed my time at home with David the last few weeks. It’s been almost surreal planning for weekends in advance, to feel a sense of living here at home…not just a place where I rest my head in transition. Usually our weeks together are filled with unpacking, re-packing and a million chores before we say goodbye for another stretch. Amazingly, we’re still married too! Many people have joked that our time apart is what’s kept us together all these years, although I have to argue that that’s what has held us back from being even closer (no pun intended).

My knee is coming along, but again, it’s a slow process. Some days it feels daunting knowing how far I have to go and the pain I’ll have to endure to get there. Although my muscles are reacting extremely well and the range I have is fairly functional – it’s still very limited. Daily routines include a lot of painful exercises to increase my range of motion. I’m lucky to have David with me since he’s able to push me extremely hard in between my physio sessions. This is key to getting my knee healthy again…although I know it’s hard on David.

What else has been keeping me busy? Well, as anyone who knows me I certainly like to fill my time with projects! One thing that I’ve been working on for the last 5 weeks has been a mental training program through Minds At Work. It’s a program that trains your ‘working memory’ – the functional short term memory you use to perform everyday tasks. It is also said to help high performance athletes take in a lot of information at once and process it quickly in order to help make the best possible decision. This would all happen in a millisecond. I’ve been happy with the training and I look forward to seeing how it translates into my daily life. Lately, I can say that I have felt ‘highly functional’ but it’s hard to specify changes since it’s so pervasive. The brain is elastic and I know from experience that we can train our minds and bodies to reach incredible feats.

On another front, I have become quite popular as a keynote speaker for corporate events. This has kept me busy along with my speaking engagements at schools.

All in all, life if good. I’m plunking along working hard as always. Still, my number one priority is getting my knee back in working order so I can race as fast as ever.

Cheers,

Kelly

Roll up the Rim & Ice Cubes

2010-03-08T09:38:00.003-08:00

Is this the quiet after the storm?

It’s hard to say goodbye to an event we’ve looked forward to for so long and an event that exceeded my wildest dreams. After the closing ceremonies, which David and I were lucky enough to attend, we made our way home. The next day I had that feeling of total satisfaction with my Olympic experience yet sadness as I knew it was over. We went to Tim’s that next morning and I was surprise to see Roll up the Rim was back – I had to laugh. It was the perfect pick me up for a true Canadian suffering from post Olympic let down.

Stories from Abroad

There were many stories floating around about how the world reacted to our Olympics. Generally, the world was extremely impressed and they have a new impression of Canada after seeing the flowers blooming mid-February here on our supposedly frozen tundra.

One story I thought needed sharing came from Down Under. David was in Australia training for the first block of our Olympics. A week into the Games the local radio station began pleading to their listeners for public aid. This stimulus package wasn’t for Haiti, rather, they were looking to save Canada’s Olympic Games. They asked all their listeners to go to their freezer and ship as many ice cubes as they could spare to Vancouver!

Knee Update

My degree watch took a bit of a hiatus during the Olympics. Although I was still hard at work doing my exercises my blog had more important details to cover! In Whistler I worked with Andree Lavoie, a physiotherapist who used to work with our team for 15years. Between Andree, my portable physio clinic I had set up in my hotel room, and the pool at the Westin I was well covered.

Good news; I’ve ditched the crutches! I’m now walking full time without any assistance. My leg has some muscle again so the blood flow is back to normal which feels great and lets me stand and move a lot more. My balance is quite good on my leg and I can stand on one leg doing basic exercises.

On the other side, bending my knee is coming slowly. I’m currently at 75degrees and slowly making progress. I’m going to town bending my knee pushing to tears 3 to 4 times a day. Everything is coming along extremely well once I get new range of motion – but it’s a stiff knee. It’ll come though and I am confident that the work I’m doing will get the results I’m looking for.

Other good news is that the ligaments are nice and tight! My knee is strong knee once again.

Food For Thought:

- Has anyone else lost their excitement for the NHL? After the Gold medal game I’ve become spoiled. It was such a high level of hockey, with so much at stake, that the NHL has simply lost some shine. Don’t worry, I’m sure it’s shine will return. However, for now, I’m happy to bask in my Olympic memories of what hockey can look like.

- Are our Olympians going to fade off into the sunset? I was extremely surprised to learn from the Conglomerate (CTV, TSN & Sportsnet) that as soon as the Games are over they aren’t allowed to use any video footage from the Olympics. Not in highlight reels; not in wrap up shows; nor in yearend highlights either; the images from these Olympics can’t be used again…period. Sadly, I think this IOC rule adds to the fact that many Olympians seems to disappear between the Olympic Games. Wouldn’t it be great if the highlights from Vancouver were replayed all year long?!

- Congratulations Erik Guay!!!!! Way to go winning Kvitfjell’s World Cup Super G!!!!

Till next time,

Kelly

Golden Games

2010-02-28T13:03:00.002-08:00

I can't believe the Olympics are already wrapping up. After dreaming about this occasion and preparing for it for over 9years (one might argue my whole life) I certainly leave with mixed emotions. For one thing I'm in absolute awe at how well Canada and VANOC prepared for these games and hosted the world. I'm not leaving with a medal as I'd dreamt, but I am leaving with renewed spirit, amazing memories, and new friends.

Canada's world record setting Gold medal haul is what impressed me the most. The athletes were certainly going for Gold! Although that attitude may have cost us some silver and bronze medals due to blow outs, it’s that kind of effort that has made Canada Gold Medal record breakers. (And hopefully our boys on the ice will bring home the final Gold medal!) In previous e-mails I’d talked about my fellow Wrigley athlete Denny Morrison, well, he finally did it with his teammates and won Gold! Congratulations! I voted them in as they best underdogs of the games… www.chewtowin.ca/s pirit

These last 5 days of the Games I was able to share with David. We went to a hockey game with the Hudson’s and cheered on Team Canada to a victory over Germany. We hung out on set in Whistler, and we cheering along with everyone as we urged our Canadian athletes on. Now, we’re settling in to watch to most anticipated Game at the Olympics. Go Boys Go!!!! We’ll also be in the stadium watching the closing ceremonies – we are both extremely excited to watch Canada wrap up this incredible show.

These Olympics certainly didn’t disappoint – they exceeded everything I’d ever imagined.

Till next time,

Kelly

'Wedding Phenomenon'

2010-02-22T16:54:00.002-08:00

When David and I were married in the spring it hit me that that may be the only moment in our lives where everyone we loved was in the same place. I’m now realizing, that the Olympics has that same ‘wedding phenomenon’. Everyone I know (and just about ever did know) from sport are in the area. From all over the world, sport has come together to throw the biggest party in our lives. It’s spectacular, emotional, and will leave us with lifelong memories.

National Anthem

I watched Jon Montgomery be awarded his Gold medal here in Whistler. It was a moment I’ll never forget – to hear everyone there belt out our National Anthem with such pride was spectacular. It was emotional on so many levels – I felt profoundly happy for him and for everyone who felt a piece of his victory, whether as a spectator or as a bandwagon fan. I was beginning to leave after he was awarded his medal when they went right into the awards for the women’s SG. I don’t know why, but it caught be off guard. I really thought I’d be up there with those girls, but life had a different plan for me. I cheered along with the whole crowd, while also shedding a few emotional tears.

PS – Someone voted Jon Montgomery in for the “Best Underdog” award. Vote him into the lead at: www.chewtowin.ca/spirit

Just A Few Thoughts…

How about this US domination – especially on the hills here in Whistler. They have already gotten more medals in Alpine than they ever have before. It makes me wonder if their comfort here has something to with feeling at home in our culture…yet not having the pressure of a home Olympics.

I’ve also been reading a few articles where reporters are saying Canada’s Alpine athletes chocked. I know how badly each and every Canadian athlete wants to stand on the podium but I know personally how badly our alpine athletes wanted it. To begin with, if you look at each individual, they needed their personal bests to stand on that podium, and for some, better than their personal bests (ex. Britt has never stood on the podium in Super G yet was expected to podium here). That’s a lot to ask of an athlete let alone expect it, then admonish them when they don’t reach those standards. I also think the projections for our Alpine Team were too steep. In a perfect world we could have done it – but with 5 Olympians no longer competing and all that pressure resting on fewer shoulders, the burden was too much to bear. Plus, this is ski racing. There is an ebb and flow to success as Bode and Mancuso have shown us.

Own the Podium’s support has been vital to Alpine Canada. Their support along with corporate sponsors is the only reason our team still has a shot at the podium after losing so many athletes to injury. Own the Podium became a reality in 2005 and fully functional a few years after that. In that short a period, Alpine athletes have flourished with this new found support. I hope this momentum and funding will continue since it is working – regardless of the results here in Whistler.

It’s sad to see an athlete fall short of what their potential holds. The Olympics are over in an instant and one hopes the years of hard work and dedication shine through in that instant. But it doesn’t always work out that way. To my fellow Wrigley’s Gum athlete – Denny Morrison – I feel for you and hope you will continue lacing up those skates because you do Canada proud. All our Athletes – on the podium or otherwise – do Canada proud.

On a happy note, David arrives back from Australia tomorrow!

Till Next Time,

Kelly

This picture says it all.

I’ve had the luxury of getting to spend lots of time with my family during their time here at the Games (my cousin Tara is behind the camera). This is us at the Medal Ceremony for Jon Montgomery.

The crowd went crazy for Jon!

Physio with Andree!

Peaks and Valleys - Canada feels them all

2010-02-20T13:56:00.002-08:00

Two days ago I watched Cristrine Nesbitt win Gold in a gut wrenching close race where she pushed through the pain to win by 0.02hunnies. Then yesterday, seeing Jon Montgomery win Gold here in Whistler ignited Canada’s spirit all over again. These performances have been inspirational, exciting, and have awakened the Canadian Spirit in a Nation. Last night, all of Whistler was on fire and Robson Street in Vancouver was packed as Canadians flooded the streets with cheers. My favourite part was hearing the crowds spontaneously break out singing our National Anthem.

These moments make the hard days as an athlete feel worth the effort. Those kinds of highs are virtually unattainable in daily life – because you’re not alone on the sporting field. You are there with a piece of every Canadian (especially here at a home Olympics). However, there is the other side of the coin. Alpine’s team hasn’t come through with a medal; Denny Morrison (fellow C.H.E.W athlete) had one of his worst races in the 1000m; and Mellisa Hollingsworth fell short of the podium where she was favoured to win. All of these stories remind us of how often, in sport and in life, things don’t always work out as we hoped. Bug these athletes will continue to excel and push forward, they will continue to inspire as they get back up and to do it all over again. Denny Morrison is racing in the 1,500m later today - I look forward to watching him skate. I’m sure we’ll see his heart out there on the ice. I’m also certain our Alpine team will continue to excel on hills around the world and I look forward to watching the technical events later this week.

I’ve been watching the Canadian Athletic Spirit Awards online – some fun nominations. chewtowin.ca/spirit I have to say….some of those skeleton athletes just may have to win the best cheeks award ….and I’m not talking the smiling cheeks! J

As for me, I’m still enjoying my work with CTV. The learning curve has been steep but I’m starting to feel more comfortable in front of the camera. The people behind the scenes are such an amazing crew, it’s an honour to work with them.

During these games I’ve had some sad moments, usually during physio on the days of the races I thought I’d be competing in. I’m so proud of our girls though, going out there racing hard for a medal. I can feel their disappointment but I also hope they loved the experience. Everyone out here is just cheering our Red and White athletes on like crazy.

Till Next Time,

Kelly

Allison Forsyth (World Cup medalist and my former teammate) was on the show - so fun to catch up again!

Rob Boyd, Patrick Riml, and Heinzpeter Platter doing an interview with Jennifer Hedger.

Myself and Jennifer Hedger on set a few days ago.

Cowbells and Concerts - Day 4

2010-02-16T10:26:00.005-08:00

Have I mentioned that I LOVE the Olympics!!!!!! I can’t get enough of the vibe and energy that’s everywhere here in Whistler. It’s a whirlwind that means there is no way to even know of every cool event that’s taking place…never mind attending them all. There are countless free concerts happening on the outdoor stages here and of course nonstop sporting action to keep you occupied. If that isn’t enough then you can check out the Alpine Canada House, the Swiss House, the Canada House, the Slovenian House, etc. etc. etc.

If one chooses to I’m sure you could go nonstop 24/7 and still miss much of the events that are taking place, and that’s just here in Whistler, Vancouver is on a whole other level again. Although I haven’t made it much outside of my 150metre radius which includes my hotel and the CTV stage, I did see my family for dinner last night and made it to the Canada House to meet Canada’s Governor General Michaelle Jean. It was an honour to meet her – an elegant, patient, and sweet lady.

I’m not sure if everyone caught the Men’s DH event yesterday but it was fun to watch with some big air and bumpy sections. But wow, what a race! I hear the Swiss House was on FIRE last night with celebrations. (Unfortunately, it being outside of my 150m radius I didn’t take part but I did hear lots about it…and the cowbells were heard throughout the Village).

I was checking out the Canadian Spirit Awards and who’s been nominated and voted for. It’s pretty funny some of the nominations and reasons why. I nominated Dixon for the Craziest Canuck category and Osborne-Paradise for the Enjoy Life award. Check it out and vote….we can’t have hockey players win all the awards! www.chewtowin.ca/spirit

I’m now settling into my role here and having a great time, learning lots. There are SO many ski racers around that it’s fun to catch up with some old friends and ex racers. Tonight I’ll be in Vancouver for the first official Party to celebrate Alexandre Bilodeau’s Gold. I’m looking forward to meeting him and getting to see firsthand what an Olympic Gold looks like.

Till next time,

Kelly

Thomas Grandi, John Kucera, Myself, and Max Gartner standing on set.

Emily Brydon, Shona Rubens, Georgia Simmerling and Myself at an event for Alpine Canada.

Alexandra Meissnitzer (the racer who beat me out for the Bronze in Torino) and I had dinner a few nights ago. We are both here working with TV throughout these Games.

The village is full of Canadian Pride!

Between sets I spend most of my time in my room doing my knee exercises while watching the Olympics.

Emily Brydon in the Village with her 3, yes I said 3, cell phones!!!! Atta girl Em! She’s looking great though and in such amazing spirits.

I had the honour of meeting Michaelle Jean, Canada’s Governor General, at a reception yesterday. It was nice to speak French with her and chat for about 10minutes.

This is where Johnny and I watched the Men’s Olympic Downhill. Not as glamorous or exciting as being on the hill, but still exciting to watch. Johnny and I were part of the coverage pre and post race.

Brian Stemmle, John Kucera, myself and Jennifer Hedger on Primetime last night.

Let The Games Begin!

2010-02-12T20:36:00.005-08:00

How can I possibly describe the atmosphere here in Whistler? To say the least it is electric as everyone’s levels of excitement have now hit full tilt. The village is alive as the world watches the Opening ceremonies. You can’t get a spot in front of the Jumbo Trons, every restaurant with a TV is filled, every person is glued to the sets as they watch the Olympic Games begin. The performances were nothing short of spectacular as I’ve come to expect from these games – they aren’t letting anyone down. I was also impressed with how they honoured the passing of Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili. Truly a sad note on this day otherwise joyous day. Still, I believe these ceremonies started the games with the true spirit of the Olympics.

Many people assumed I would be at the Opening Ceremonies, however, since I’m injured and no longer and athlete I couldn’t. Still, in some funny way I was at the Opening Ceremonies. Shona Rubens, from the ceremony, texted me to tell me that my image was a part of the montage that played on those white mountains. Funny to know that I was still there in a way. I have to admit, watching Team Canada be announced was nothing short of overwhelming. I’m so proud of the team Canada has fielded for these games – I can’t wait to watch them all perform!

Watching Gretzky light the torch I felt the same emotions I felt in Torino. It’s overwhelming, this is something special, so much bigger than any one of us as it unifies the world.

Yesterday, when I was on stage with Michael Landsberg as we rehearsed for today’s show I had to laugh. He was chewing ‘my’ excel gum and he didn’t even know it was me! He had the long package full of them too – so everyone on stage had quite the laugh. Over the next two weeks check out C.H.E.W’S ‘Canadian Athlete Spirit Awards’. You can vote athletes for different categories such as:

Best Cheeks
Best Winning Smile
Promoter of Canada
Craziest Canuck
Best New Freestyle Trick
Enjoy Life
Best Use of Canadian Flag
Photogenic
Best Underdog
Looks Best in Red

Go to http://bit.ly/caM2gw to start voting people in! (I’m guessing the Craziest Canuck will come from an Alpine Skier...we’re all a bit crazy!)

Tomorrow (if weather permits) is the Men’s Downhill!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Go Boys Go!!!!!

Till Next Time,

Kelly

Primping...new world for me!

A CTV News Room set up in a hotel in the Village.

Entertainment is all around in the village! Including skiers flying through flaming rings.

Just after we aired in the Pre-Game show for the Opening Ceremonies.

Cool shot yesterday Evening.

Torch Relay Today!

2010-02-09T21:49:00.003-08:00

+12 degrees, sunny, and not a breath of wind. Mother nature blessed us with the weather today! I'll post more soon, but here are some pictures!

Opportunities

2010-02-09T21:45:00.002-08:00

Here’s a few updates about how things are going in my world:

Opportunities:

There is no lack of opportunities that have been presented to me this week.

I was lucky enough to represent one of the charitable organization I work with, Play It Cool, last Wednesday to help present VANOC with a bronze medal for their environmental achievements. (Having finished 4th in an Olympics I can certainly attest to the value of a bronze.) VANOC took incredible measures in their effort to lessen their negative impact on our environment. Highlights of their achievements include that they offset 100% of their direct carbon footprint and have left a legacy of venues that are energy efficient and at the forefront of building environmentally conscious structures.

I have also been offered the chance to take part in the Closing ceremonies. I’m not sure I’ll be able to with my knee, but if I can, I will.

At the moment I’m averaging about 2 interviews a day – I’m constantly amazed at our Nations excitement as the Games near. It seems even the biggest sceptics are getting excited and engrossed in the festivities. On Wednesday when I was in Vancouver for the Play It Cool press conference I got my first look at the city in its Olympic State. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Vancouver look so good. It made me want to run around and check every tent, venue, and activity out there.

I’ve been talking with the girls (my teammates) regularly as they finish up their final days of training before racing begins. I’m so excited for them that I have trouble containing the emotions. As I’ve said before, I’m our Team’s Number One fan. So, if my commentating on CTV is a bit biased in favour of our Canadian athletes, well, you’ll just have to deal with it!

Torch Update:

3 days and counting!

The weather being called for Tuesday is Sunny with a high of 7 degrees! Ahhhh…perfect for wheeling the flame 300 metres as it makes its way to the Opening Ceremonies.

Weight:

Since my crash just before Christmas I have lost a total of 18lbs. I have to admit – I didn’t know I could lose that kind of weight. I also didn’t realize how heavy muscle was (since I know it isn’t fat I’m losing!). I always thought I wasn’t great at putting on muscle mass. However, I have been proven wrong as I now see how much muscle I had built up over my career. Luckily the muscle memory is all there and I know it will come back fairly quickly once I start lifting again.

Workouts:

So, to keep some weight and muscle on I’ve begun a new workout regime. I call it….the beach workout! Since I can, for the most part, only do core and upper body exercises, it’s perfectly suited for creating a great beach body! Although I have to admit, I am missing my diminishing booty – so I’m doing lots of one legged squats to keep what I can.

Photography:
Subject matter is the current element that is lacking in my photography. My subjects are mostly those within a 2 meter radius of my nearly permanent couch position or else taken from my car window. I figure if I can find beauty in my crutches then maybe I’ll actually learn some skills as a photographer.

My new hobby is also helping my soul. Without the passion for the Olympics and skiing as my fuel I needed something to replace it. Just studying and working wasn’t going to be enough to keep my heart and soul intact. So, for the moment, my souls’ passion drug of choice is learning the art of photography.

Till next time,

Kelly

Elephant Scientist

2010-01-31T10:36:00.005-08:00

An Elephant Scientist. Yup, that was the ‘best’ answer I heard last week when 50 boys between the ages 4-6 were asked what they wanted to be when they grew up. The boys were attending a Beaver’s Sleep Over event with their parents. The process of finding out what these kids dreamt of becoming was wonderful and reminded me to keep my mind open to all of life’s possibilities.

I never know when inspiration will hit or what triggers it but there are certainly moments that guide our lives down paths we never expected. As I’m now committed to the path of rehab, I’m looking for what opportunities will arise, what will be the next thing to change the course of my life. Who knows, perhaps I’m destined to be an elephant scientist…although I plan to win a few more World Cup Medals before that happens!

Olympic Update:

Although I won’t be competing in the Olympics I will be participating from a different perspective. I will be working with CTV as their Alpine correspondent going over what happened that day and what to expect in upcoming events. I will be a part of the afternoon and evening shows that highlight and update the days’ activities. I’ll be working with Michael Landsberg during the day and Jennifer Hedger during the evening show. I’ll slot into the shows when it fits and likely have about 5 to 10min of air time twice a day. I’m very excited about this opportunity and look forward to learning. Although I’m nervous since this is out of my element (I prefer have two boards strapped to my legs going 130k/h) I do look forward to embracing this incredible opportunity.

Degree Watch:

Drum Roll Please….(this sounds so much better in my head)…….53 degree of flexion!!! Two weeks ago I was at 25 degrees so I’m extremely happy with the progress. I have a long way to go before I’ll reach my goal of heal to butt, but at least I’m making progress and this keeps me motivated through the long and often painful exercises.

Articles:

Below is an image of the article the Globe and Mail did updating their readers on my progress. I’m continually shocked to see the exposure I’ve been getting since my injury. Of my last 4 physio appointments I have had media in attendance for 3 of them: CBC, CTV and a local paper. Having this kind of interest and support has helped me realize how many Canadians care about me and follow my career. I can think of no better motivation as I make my way back to the hill.

This was a nice Q&A that was done prior to my injury. I thought you may like to check it out:

http://canski.org/kelly-vanderbeek-qaa

Thoughts:

As I’m now preparing for the games as; Team Canada’s #1 Fan; TV personality (I’m not sure I’m quite a personality yet but hey, I just may be crazy enough to fit the title); Corporate hostess; etc. I’m learning that I love more than ever what sport brings out in people, organizations, communities, and in a Nation. Chilliwack, my community, is preparing for the Torches arrival here on February 7^th. I can feel the buzz and the excitement as the Games near.

Yes, the Games is a two week plethora of sporting excellence, but it’s also so much more. It has a quality about it that brings people together, connecting us in ways that few things can. Although I will not be competing at these Games, I am still honoured to be a part of this event that will indelibly mark Canada’s history and that will touch millions of people’s hearts in ways we can only imagine.

Till next time,

Kelly

I let my knee rest in a streched position using this wedge to help increase it’s range of motion.

The scars are healing well. In this image you can see the two largest of the six scares.

I haven’t taken many pictures (since I can’t move or get around much) but I am practicing and learning a lot about my equipment and photo software. David’s Dad, Gary, stayed with me for a week helping me get around and do my exercises. He also is an avid photographer so I learned a lot during his stay.

2.5 Weeks Post Op

2010-01-17T14:43:00.001-08:00

There have been some rather ironic things that have happened since my knee injury. One such instance was when we had two items delivered to our home at the same time. One item was the Olympic tickets I’d purchased to my events and the other was my ice machine to help rehab my knee. It’s moments like these that give me pause. I’m on a new path and fully committed to my rehab, but my Olympic passion and spirit still burns strongly inside me. That part of me is still adjusting to my new reality and learning to let go of a dream I held so close to my heart for so long. This emotional wound will take a while to heal but I still love my life and feel like one of the luckiest people alive. (An odd contradiction in these unlucky times) But, this is how I know I’ll be just fine and I look forward to the new and different opportunities that I’ll have over the next 8 months of rehab.

Torch Update:

Teck, my title sponsor, has just told me that they have purchased my Torch on my behalf so that I may have this keepsake forever. I was so touched by their generosity and the symbolism that this gesture took. Truly an exceptional organization and one that I’m proud to represent.

Introducing….drum roll please….‘Degree Watch’:

What’s this? Well, degree watch is my new measuring tool of my knee’s progress. The number of degrees I reach is how far I’m able to bend my knee. To help explain, my leg totally straight considered zero degrees. My goal is to be able to bend my knee so my heel touches my butt – this goal is just shy of 180 degrees.

So, current Degree Watch progress sits at 25 degrees. A long way to go, but at least I’m now working at it.

For the next 3 to 4 weeks I’m only allowed to bend my knee while lying flat on my stomach. This is a position where my PCL is most protected. I’m doing this work 3 times a day with the help of a physio or David (I’m sure David didn’t read that part in the fine print when we got married). David and my family while I was in Ontario have all been amazing and vital help in all I do – I can’t thank them all enough.

New Hobbies:

As you can imagine, I have lots of time on my hands. (Although it’s not nearly as much as I expected since request have been pouring in as our country is in Olympic Fever…..my favourite kind of fever!) So, what’s keeping me busy? Well, I’ve been a long time photography buff at heart and I finally jumped in and bought myself a great SLR camera. I had some old lenses and equipment from when I jumped in as a teenager (but this was pre-digital so it’s mostly just been collecting dust). I’m now all set up and learning SO much. It’s been wonderful to get back to this passion of mine.

I’m also working towards improving my German. Although I have to admit…I’ve been procrastinating about working on this. I will though, in my sport having French, English and German would be amazing!

Till next time,

Kelly

ET Canada came to my Parents’ house in Kitchener to shoot a piece that will air in early February.

The knee is healing well from the surgery and is on track with expectations. Where I’ll struggle the most will be with flexion since I’m having to keep it straight for so long. In the picture beside you can see where the three incisions were made, there are also three arthroscopic incisions on the other side of the knee.

Post Op

2010-01-08T12:33:00.005-08:00

Well, I hope I can now truly say that the worst part is behind me. Although I know recovery will be grueling and often painful, I’m hopeful that the hardest and most painful parts are in the past.

The Surgery

The surgery went well and in my opinion it was a huge success. I say this because my knee was downgraded from a fairly catastrophic knee to a bad knee. In my opinion, this is great news! They left the IT Band to re-attach on its own, the fracture was well lined up and will also heal on its own, and they repaired my MCL and my PCL. My LCL and my ACL were both strong enough that they left them intact! The surgery was still 3.5 hours in length – this is because two ligaments still take a long time but also because the PCL is so hard to get to and hard to fix. I woke up an hour after surgery freezing with my teeth clattering away. As soon as I saw Dr. Litchfield who did my surgery the first thing I asked was how many ligaments did they have to fix. When he told me it was only two instead of the possible 3 or 4 I was told earlier, I was so happy!

The Following Week

The day after the surgery I was in rough shape. I didn’t expect it to hurt so much and struggled with the pain that first morning. We were able to ‘catch’ up to the pain after about 6 hours and then I was more comfortable and started to improve with each day. I spent 3 days and 2 nights in the hospital. I hope I won’t have to go back anytime soon. However, I was treated extremely well and I have to say that good nurses make ALL the difference. Wow, they can truly be a godsend.

Once back from the hospital (on a drive that made me feel rather nauseous) I did a lot of sleeping in the first few days – averaging 16hours/day. I’m now staying awake more and getting more energy with each day. My appetite since falling has been rather small but after the surgery it took me about 4 days to get back to more normal eating. Since the fall I’ve lost around 15lbs – a shocking amount of weight to me…although I guess my leg’s muscles probably weighed something in that category.

Surprise Visit

On Thursday night a huge crowd who’d walked from Chicopee Ski Hill surprised me on my parents’ doorstep. When I got to the door they broke out singing O Canada. I was extremely emotion at this show of support and hearing the anthem – I had hoped I’d be singing it in Vancouver.

Here is a link to that story which was covered by CTV:

http://swo.ctv.ca/news.php?id=6548&PHPSESSID=f8f4f91bc1df6d238ec2fd9f9306681c

Franklin School Visit

On Friday morning I visited my old school who’d adopted me for these Olympics. This too was an amazing event and so wonderful to see all these kids…and even a few teachers who I’d worked with when I was a student there. There were about 500 kids awaiting me cheering a chant they’d made up! It was great to be there and let them know that I will come back from this. CTV and ET Canada were both in attendance so it was quite the show - even though it was a short talk since I’m still not up for too much just yet.

http://swo.ctv.ca/news.php?id=6549&PHPSESSID=f8f4f91bc1df6d238ec2fd9f9306681c

Torch Relay Update

I have the information for when I’ll be running (or wheeling) the Torch in Vancouver on February 9^th:

Community:	New Westminster
You will be carrying the Olympic Flame for a distance of approximately 300 metres. Your segment details are:	Starting along: 8th Ave
	From: Moody Park Arena
	To: 5th St
	On: 8th Ave
Approximate time of your segment:	10:55 AM PST

I’d love to see some of you there is it works out with your schedules!

Many Smiles,

Kelly

Still Smiling

2009-12-28T17:52:00.003-08:00

I hope you are all enjoying a wonderful Christmas and Holiday season. I spent a relaxing Christmas at our home in Chilliwack with David’s family. It was wonderful to be surrounded by loved ones and to read all the well wishers coming in through e-mail, facebook, website guest book, media, etc. Thank you to everyone for their support – it will be needed to help me through this road to recovery.

Torch Bearer

First, the exciting news. John Furlong called me on Monday, December 21st to offer me the last available spot along to Torch Relay. Obviously, I accepted enthusiastically. Therefore, on February 9th, somewhere in New Westminster Vancouver I’ll be carrying the torch 300metres on its journey towards the opening ceremonies.

Knee Update

Again, let’s start with the good news. The pain and swelling in my knee has reduced dramatically which has been good to see (and a colourful process with the bruising!). Now, the bad news, the MRI results are in and after I spoke with my soon to be surgeon Dr. Litchfield the dirty truth came out. I have completely severed the ACL, MCL, and PCL. The LCL is also in bad condition and may need to be replaced but they won’t know for sure until they get inside my knee. The Tibia Plateau is fractured and my meniscuses need work. My IT Band has also come off at the insertion point just below my knee. What this means is that I must have dislocated my knee during my crash in Val D’Isere and there isn’t a whole lot more damage I could have done. The good news, they are great and putting knees back together!

My surgery will likely take around 5 hours and will happen in London, Ontario. I’ll be staying in the hospital for 1 to 2 nights then sticking around the area for about a week. The date for the surgery isn’t set yet but it I’ll know more soon.

Ok, that’s it for the bad news and here is the best news of all; the knee will only get better from here.

I hope everyone has a wonderful New Year!!!!!!!!! May it be filled with Smiles and Good Health.

Still Smiling,

Kelly