Kevin Pearce, former professional snowboarder, Sports Ambassador for the National Down Syndrome Society, and founder of LoveYourBrain, LLC inspired more than 200 guests recently at the P.G. Chambers School’s 21^st annual Menus for the Mind Lecture Series.

On Nov. 12, Pearce, his brother, Adam, and friend, Rose, met the students of P.G. Chambers School in Cedar Knolls and were amazed at the students’ abilities and the joy they could see on the students’ faces. As Pearce said, “There is something so unique about this place, I have never seen a school like this!”

During the program, Pearce spoke about his recovery.

Pearce catapulted onto the professional snowboarding stage in 2005 at the age of 18, soaring above others in his division and quickly becoming the athlete to watch in the ever evolving sport. With his smooth style, spellbinding tricks, and panache for the unexpected, fans came to expect only amazing things from him. In the 2009 Winter X Games, Kevin brought home the Silver Medal for the Superpipe, making him a strong contender to win Gold in the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

Everything changed for Pearce on Dec. 31, 2009, while training for the Olympic trials, when practicing a trick on the half pipe. Pearce suffered a traumatic brain injury that left him in critical condition and was placed in a medically induced coma. His story of survival is riveting, jaw dropping, and inspiring.

Pearce also spoke about his older brother, David who was born with Down Syndrome and has had a huge influence in his life and career. Pearce’s authenticity and advocacy to better himself and others carried through in his message. The luncheon proved to be an outstanding success, raising $198,712.
For the past 21 years, Menus for Mind has been the signature fundraising event for P.G. Chambers School. In addition to raising the awareness of the school and its mission, Menus has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to provide new technologies, curriculum, specialized equipment, and materials to students with disabilities.

The second luncheon in the series is set for Thurs., May 5, featuring a special presentation by the students and a guest lecturer, Lauren Weisberger, New York Times bestselling author of “The Devil Wears Prada,” at The Park Avenue Club in Florham Park.

The luncheon series ticket is $450 per person and can be purchased online. For more information on ticket sales or to volunteer at the school, contact Erin Martin at martine@chambersschool.org or at 973-829-8484.

Founded in 1954, P.G. Chambers School offers a wide range of programs that help children with learning, physical, communication, and sensory disorders develop the skills they need to realize their unique talents and capabilities.