Perseverance, Courage, and Adventure: Kirstie Ennis and BEDSLIDE

 

Kirstie Ennis is the embodiment of perseverance and courage. A retired U.S. Marine Sergeant, motivational speaker, entrepreneur, snowboarder, mountain climber, and left-leg amputee, Kirstie has accomplished more by age 30 than most achieve in a lifetime. Despite a life-changing helicopter crash in Afghanistan in 2012, which resulted in the amputation of her left leg above the knee and more than 40 surgeries, she continues to push boundaries and inspire others. In 2019, Kirstie was honored at the ESPYs with the Pat Tillman Award for her outstanding resilience and leadership.

 

As a LEER and BEDSLIDE ambassador since 2018, Kirstie exemplifies strength, determination, and a commitment to helping others. Through her speaking engagements across the country and the work of the Kirstie Ennis Foundation, she encourages individuals to overcome obstacles and “show the world we control our circumstances, they do not control us.” The foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, aims to financially support organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals and families. By hosting rock-climbing and snowboarding clinics—two of Kirstie’s passions—the foundation provides education, opportunity, and healing through outdoor adventure. Additionally, the foundation partners with organizations focused on mobility solutions and introduces innovative or recycled medical devices to underserved communities worldwide.

 

Kirstie has redefined the meaning of a “disabled athlete.” As a Paralympic snowboarder, she competed in boardercross and banked slalom events, and she has gone on to accomplish remarkable mountaineering feats. She has summited Mt. Kilimanjaro, Carstenzs (the highest point in Oceania), and Iliniza Norte in Ecuador, with plans to complete the Seven Summits by climbing the highest peak on every continent. Even when faced with setbacks, like being turned around by weather on Denali, Kirstie demonstrates unwavering resilience and determination.

 

LEER Truck Caps and BEDSLIDE cargo drawers are proud to partner with Kirstie Ennis and the Kirstie Ennis Foundation. This partnership aligns with LEER’s commitment to supporting adventurers who inspire others to live fully, pursue challenges, and maximize the potential of their vehicles. Through this collaboration, LEER and BEDSLIDE help adventurers like Kirstie transport their gear safely and efficiently, ensuring that nothing stands in the way of achieving extraordinary goals.

 

For more information on Kirstie Ennis and her incredible work, visit the Kirstie Ennis Foundation to learn how you can support their mission of empowering individuals and improving lives through adventure and mobility.