On June 4, 2011, while rock climbing near Gunnison, Colorado, Danielle had a tragic accident, falling over 250 feet, breaking her ankles, femur, pelvis, and back in 2 places. Paralyzed at T6 and a wheelchair user, she had 6 surgeries and was hospitalized for 3 and a half months. Her surgeon believes Danielle survived the longest fall on record onto a hard surface, and wrote an article about it.

Although Danielle’s body was broken her spirit has remained unchanged, saying “I feel grateful that this happened to me.” She’s a hero to many, pushing past the boundaries of possibility, having earned a masters degree in occupational therapy at University of Puget Sound and she now practices hand therapy in Bend, Oregon, while she competes in para road cycling events both domestically and internationally including World Cups in Germany and Italy. Currently, Danielle is featured in an award-winning film, “Adapted”, soon to be screening across the country.

This lecture/conversation is presented by ASUPS Lectures, to excite, inspire, and empower in support of Women’s History Month 2026. Free admission.