Max,
Just wanted to say (and I speak for Cassie here as well) that it was a pleasure to meet you at OES.
We were both dumbstruck to hear what had happened. We were riding up Rainbow after the first run when we saw the sled heading down from the Sunrise chair and were both hoping that it wasn't anyone in our group that got hurt. Unfortunately it was and unfortunately it happened to a great person such as you.
I'm sending you heaping amounts of good vibes to speed you on your recovery.
(RANT ON)
It is more than a bit embarrassing that the rider who caused this still remains unknown and will not, at the very least, openly apologize for the situation in question. I've always taken a certain degree of pride knowing that the alpine snowboard crew, while wild at times, are several rungs up on the respect and responsibility ladder than the jib monkey, group think collective. This situation puts that assumption to the test and, at this point, it has failed terribly. All it takes is a modicum of decency to stand up, admit fault in this situation and offer an apology. It is very apparent that whoever caused the accident is severely lacking in "sack". If this rant sounds like a challenge, it's meant to. The person responsible needs to get their SH_T together, own up and take their lumps.
(RANT OFF)
On another note, Shane is the man! Really though, I don't think anyone who knows him would expect anything less from someone with such an exemplary character.
Lastly, I truly hope that you, Max, will not let this bad situation stand out as the sum total of your OES experience and I'm hoping that you will give it another chance next year. I know that Cassie and I would love to have another opportunity to ride with you out here. If you ever get to the Portland/Vancouver area in the future give a shout; we'd love to get together.