Episode Details

What drives someone to keep pushing forward when life delivers unimaginable setbacks? In this episode of First Chair, George Thomas sits down with Aspen Ski Instructor Tony Drees, a Purple Heart recipient whose journey from combat injury to cancer to amputation ultimately led him to the slopes as a ski instructor. Tony shares how losing his leg at 50 inspired him to pursue skiing with purpose—quickly progressing from first lessons to teaching and preparing for his Alpine Level II certification. Along the way, he reflects on resilience, the power of collaboration in adaptive sports, and why outdoor recreation is never a solo effort. From backflips on one leg to mentoring Paralympic athletes, Tony’s story is about more than perseverance—it’s about using skiing to inspire reflection, connection, and possibility. Watch this episode on YouTube to see Tony’s story and hear how the snowsports community helped shape his journey.