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. Currently, FD offers programs for young adults impacted by Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and will continue to explore other serious health conditions over the course of time.

FD will continue to expand programs for young adults impacted by cancer. We aim to reach more adults year over year by expanding programs, building community and prescribing adventure. By strengthening medical center partnerships, implementing a robust recruitment strategy, and investing in local adventure communities, FD’s oncology programs will continue to thrive.

FD relies on smart and caring healthcare professionals to advise its program design and implementation. For MS programs in particular, 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 recognizes there are special adaptive considerations for people coping with MS, including temperature fluctuations, fatigue, and mobility restrictions, and takes a similar approach in ensuring its staff has the necessary tools available to deliver a meaningful and safe First Descents experience for everyone.

Thank you for your interest in First Descents’ programs for young adults coping with MS. You can learn about our MS programs through our Programs Finder. Currently, we offer Week-Long and Multi-Day programs for the MS community exclusively. MS community members are also welcome to attend Single-Day and Monthly Meetups through their FDTribs. Please note that oncology and MS community members are welcome to join Single-Day and Monthly Meetups and they will participate in those activities together. If you have any questions please email [email protected] and we will get right back to you.

MS participants are welcome to join any MS-specific Multi-Day programs being offered through their FDTrib, as well as any Single-Day or Monthly Meetup.

Everyone regardless of their diagnosis is eligible for one FD Week-Long program. If you happen to have a dual diagnosis of cancer and MS, you have the option to attend one Week-Long program and can choose from either MS or Oncology Week-Long programs located on our Programs Finder. If you have any questions, please email [email protected]

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. Or please reach out to [email protected] and a member of our programs team will get back to you.