Woman Who Uses a Wheelchair and a Man with Blindness Team Up for Hiking Adventures.

Melanie Knecht and Trevor Hahn met at an adaptive rock-climbing class and became fast friends as they bonded over their shared love of the outdoors. Melanie, born with spina bifida, uses a wheelchair. Trevor lost his eyesight to glaucoma five years ago. Determined to embark on a dream hiking adventure, the two friends devised a plan to combine their skill sets and abilities. 

“He’s the legs, and I’m the eyes,” Melanie said. 

During one of their conversations in which they shared stories of past outdoor adventures, Melanie related the immense joy she felt on a recent hike on Easter Island. There, she had hiked the trail thanks to a friend who hoisted her onto his back in a carrier meant for children. Trevor then shared his story of scaling a Himalayan peak by using poles and following the directions of guides and fellow hikers. These stories sparked their plan to continue their outdoor adventures as a team. 

As the children's carrier had proven functional, but too small and uncomfortable, the pair eventually found a larger and more suitable carrier made by a company called Freeloader. Secured to Trevor's back by the more functional holster, Melanie now verbally guides Trevor as he navigates mountain trails.

The dynamic duo said they receive great satisfaction from being able to do these things on their own. Their unique partnership has also enabled them to reconnect with nature and share their joy of hiking the great outdoors. 

“I just love to be on the top of the mountain because I can hear the expansive space around me. I can listen to the birds, I can listen to the waterfall,” said Trevor. 

The determined friends are currently working on climbing to the top of a 14,000-foot mountain.

“Together, we’re the dream team,” Melanie said.

“If you want something bad enough, and you find the right people—who also want what you want—you can do anything,” Trevor added.

Melanie and Trevor aim to encourage more inclusive and adaptive solutions for others living with disabilities. 

The Foundation for a Better Life and PassItOn believe that Melanie and Trevor are heroes. Their collaboration is a great example of the value of teamwork. Together, they prove that there is no challenge that is too great to overcome when you have the right support.

Watch video here: https://youtu.be/Zy8a14Nbfno?si=A9p5D_QmKjkM3QNr