In 2008, when I just started to go out with Andy, Andy's sponsor (Scarpa UK) asked me why I wasn't wearing any Scarpa shoes. I told them I didn't wear leather and that all Scarpa shoes available where made of leather (with a little of lorica). 6 weeks later, on my way to Swiss, I received 3 pairs of hand made non-leather scarpa shoes. I was extremely overwhelmed and humbled by this gift. I vividly remember the first time I climbed on my new shoes. We were warming up in the 'Deliverance' area in Chironico, and the first problem I pulled onto was 'L'ape nagia' (F6c) was on. It felt awkward climbing on my new shoes, but they stuck to the rock and made me climb the problem easily. That trip I climbed harder than I had ever climbed before. I'm sure it was partly because of my shoes. Not only because they are amazing shoes, but also because the shoes symbolised Scarpa UK's believe in my abilities and potential (I.e. external support can make you feel so much stronger).
Two years later, in December 2010 I gave birth to Amber and just before her birth Andy suffered his severe stroke. These two major events in my life stopped me from going on climbing trips and (therefor) sending hard problems outside. This didn't, however, stop Scarpa from supporting me. Ever since 2008, they've provided me with special hand-made non-leather climbing shoes. And they have never asked me to do anything for them in return.
I can not thank them enough for what they've done for me. I love my Scarpa shoes and I'm very proud being sponsored by them. Thank you so much Scarpa UK.
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