First Descents offers cancer survivors an empowering adventure on the rapids of Montana
“The vision was really simple for First Descents, and that was just to teach young adults with cancer how to kayak,” said Brad Ludden.
In Changing Currents, the first episode in the Discover Your #MontanaMoment video series from Montana Office of Tourism and Business Development, kayaker and outdoor adventurer Brad Ludden leads a group of extraordinary young adults on a challenging ride on the rushing rapids of Montana. Ludden is the founder of First Descents, a charitable non-profit which offers cancer fighters and survivors an outdoor adventure experience and support for the challenges ahead. Using the whirling rapids of Clark Fork River in Missoula, participants are empowered to kayak the most challenging waters, defy their diagnosis, and reclaim their lives.
“At First Descents we look for a beautiful setting, a great adventure, and great people,” said Ludden. “Montana has an abundance of all those things.”
Brad’s story highlights one of the many ways adventure seekers can find new challenges to conquer during a day on the water in Montana. For more story ideas, check out our list of water activities to help plan your day on Montana’s lakes or rivers.