A note from the family.

“Our family came into Big Sky Bravery’s Family Task Force 53 as a large, blended family with two active-duty special operations parents. We each brought three children from previous marriages, and like any blended family, we have spent years learning how to grow together, trust one another, and become one family.

What we didn’t realize when we arrived in Montana was just how much one week could accelerate that journey.

FTF 53 became a week of facing fears…together. Every day, at least one of our children was nervous, hesitant, or genuinely afraid of what was in front of them. Whether it was horseback riding, zip lining, climbing into a hot air balloon, or getting behind the boat to wake surf, each new experience presented a challenge, and those challenges quickly became opportunities.

We watched our children encourage one another when someone wanted to quit. We watched step-siblings become teammates. We watched children place a new level of trust in step-parents as they faced something that scared them. And we watched our family learn that when one of us was struggling, the rest of us would be there to help them through it.

Those moments created bonds that are difficult to put into words.

The experiences were incredible, but the true impact of Big Sky Bravery went beyond the activities. The nightly family questions forced us to slow down, talk, listen, and understand one another on a deeper level. Some conversations brought laughter, some brought reflection, and others identified areas where we still have work to do as a family. Most importantly, they gave us new goals to carry home with us long after the week ended.

We arrived at BSB as a blended family, and we left FTF 53 feeling more like…..a family.

There are not enough words to express our gratitude to Big Sky Bravery, its volunteers, and the incredibly generous donors who make these experiences possible. You gave our family far more than an unforgettable week in Montana. You gave us opportunities to build trust, overcome fear, strengthen relationships, and create memories that will remain with our children for the rest of their lives.

From our entire family, thank you to everyone who made FTF 53 possible.

The impact of what you do is real, lasting, and immeasurable.”