FAQs

Absolutely not! We'll teach you everything you need to know. The majority of First Descents participants are new to the sports.

No. First Descents provides all the equipment you'll need to keep you safe, warm and relatively dry!

Yes, of course. Your body has been through a lot and we understand that. We'll work individually with you to ensure you're comfortable with the level of activity and exertion. We encourage you to challenge yourself, and we'll push you to do so, but not past your capabilities.

The basics for being outdoors in the summer. Lots of t-shirts, shorts, a fleece and warm sweater for cooler nights, a warm hat, undergarments and toiletries. Bring a sleeping bag if you have one. Call the First Descents office if you're unsure of what's appropriate to bring, we can answer your questions about the accommodations in each location.

As a young adult cancer organization, we give first preference to those diagnosed between the ages of 18-39. Having to limit our programs to a specific age demographic is a tough situation - we absolutely recognize the need of resources for cancer fighters and survivors for ALL ages. However, at this time, we are focusing on the 18-39 age group. We hope to be able to serve other age demographics in the future so please stay in touch with us. There are also some other great programs out that that serving the 40+ age range that FD supports please contact Julie our program coordinator for references (Julie.Kinamore@FirstDescents.org).

First Descents programs are free to all participants who are accepted. We ask that participants who are able pay just their travel expenses, however we do provide a limited number of travel scholarships for those who demonstrate financial need. We make every effort to not let monetary obstacles prevent people from participating in our programs. All first-time participants OR second-year participants still undergoing chemotherapy/radiation treatments are eligible for scholarships.

Yes.  There are emergency medical providers onsite at each program.  FD has a team of volunteer Oncology professionals who review each application, and communicate with each participant's primary care physician, ensuring a safe and successful experience for each individual.

We understand that circumstances may change over the course of several months. We will make every effort to have you participate when you are cleared by your doctor.

As long as our Medical Director and your medical team feel that it is safe for you to attend and participate, we're all for it! We have participants in all stages of treatment and recovery, recent amputees, those with special medical needs etc. We are prepared to adapt to your specific needs.

Your safety is our first priority. While whitewater kayaking and mountain climbing are somewhat extreme sports, we have the best guides and safety support and never go beyond a 4:1 ratio of participants to guides. If needed we'll go 1:1 to ensure your safety and comfort.

Rad stuff! Hiking, eating private chef prepared meals, sky diving, zip lining, rafting, dance parties, campfires, etc.

Actually FD programs are drug and alcohol free. We want our staff and participants to be able to fully embrace a week of challenge, outdoor adventure and healthy living. Trust us, campfire (and everything else that happens at a program) is beyond rad-- even without the PBR!