First Descents
MS Programming

With a vision to become the global leader in adventure-based healing, First Descents (FD) is excited to explore program expansion for other serious conditions that disproportionately impact young adults. This will be done intentionally and will not detract from the continued expansion of cancer programs.

In 2016, CNN Heroes put First Descents on the world stage. Since then, FDHQ has received numerous requests from patient advocacy groups, medical centers, and other healthcare organizations inquiring how FD can help their patients. Many of these organizations are working with patients coping with a range of serious illnesses and other medical conditions that impact young adults. Anxiety, isolation, and depression are common side-effects for young adults who have had their lives turned upside down by an unexpected diagnosis or traumatic event. Our research shows how outdoor adventure and social connection help improve the quality of life for those coping with these side-effects.

Yes. Our research and ongoing work with medical centers nationwide reinforces a lack of meaningful psychosocial supportive care services for young adults. First Descents will continue to lead the way in outdoor adventure programs for young adults and work diligently to fill this service gap.

FD will continue to expand programs for young adults impacted by cancer. In 2019, FD aims to provide 1,500 unique experiences for young adults coping with cancer; this represents a 20% increase in participants served as compared to 2018.

By strengthening medical center partnerships, implementing a robust recruitment strategy, and investing in local adventure communities, FD’s oncology programs will continue to thrive.

If you make a donation to First Descents (thanks, you rock!), those funds are fully attributed to programs for young adults impacted by cancer. Programs serving young adults coping with similar side-effects resulting from other serious conditions will be funded with restricted giving from new supporters (i.e., all new money).

In the case of FD's MS programs, our friends at Velocity Global and Genentech have fully funded all costs associated with program design and implementation. They have also made important introductions to leaders within the MS Community.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is often diagnosed as a young adult with symptoms progressing over time.

There are approximately 400,000 people living with MS in the United States with an estimated 10,000 new diagnoses annually. The average age of MS onset is 34 years old—a time of life when many are just finding their groove: finishing a Master's degree, having a family, buying a home, moving up the career ladder.

MS medical and program experts, as well as a generous new funding partner, have rallied to support this effort. Sometimes the stars align and guide the way!

All of these considerations make young adults coping with MS a suitable group to develop programs for.

FD has always relied on smart and caring healthcare professionals to advise its program design and implementation. Similarly, FD has enrolled the support of program and medical leaders from the National MS Society, CanDo MS, along with other leaders in the MS community to advise on MS program design, medical screenings, and participant recruitment.

FD currently arms its Lead Staff with training and oncology resources so to create a safe, supportive environment for participants regardless of their cancer diagnosis. FD recognizes there are special adaptive considerations for people coping with MS including temperature fluctuations, fatigue, and mobility restrictions, and will take a similar approach in ensuring its staff has the necessary tools available to deliver a meaningful and safe First Descents experience.

Thank you for your interest in First Descents’ programs for young adults coping with multiple sclerosis (MS). In order to ensure program and participant success, FD will be providing three multi-day programs in 2019 for adults with MS. Program details are still being finalized but if you’re interested in inquiring as a potential participant please email us at [email protected] and we will get right back to you.

The bonds made at First Descents are undeniable. Our community is strong because of shared experiences through adventure but also through the common connection of a cancer diagnosis. We understand this. We understand that there is value in being with a group that “gets it”. With this in mind, FD will take a deliberate and intentional approach to integrating participants with MS into our community in a way that does not dilute the experience or impact of oncology-specific programs.

Please leave a message on our contact page at firstdescents.org/contact-us/ and the appropriate FD staffer will respond back in a timely manner.