Snowboarder still in serious condition

Brian DeWeese, a local snowboarder who was hospitalized Sunday after catching an edge at Aspen Highlands, remains in serious condition and is facing a significant recovery, according to close friends.

Friend Judson Bardwell said Thursday that DeWeese, 45, remains at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction, where he underwent brain surgery Sunday. During the procedure, DeWeese had a portion of his skull removed to reduce swelling. Bardwell said the hospital reported a positive sign in the fact that DeWeese has shown intentional movement in every part of his body.

DeWeese, who was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, caught an edge on the lower Heather-Bedlam run after having lunch with friends at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro.

“His recovery, while still undetermined at this point, will prove to be significant, lengthy and difficult,” Bardwell said in a statement.

A seven-year Aspen local, DeWeese has a 16-year-old daughter, Brianna. Friends of DeWeese have set up BounceBack Brian.com, where visitors can contribute to his recovery.

“BounceBackBrian.com has been created to provide the means for family and friends to contribute and assist in bringing this loving, spirited person through recovery, while ensuring that both Brian and Brianna are secure during this very traumatic, difficult experience,” the statement said.

Aspen Highlands ski patrol received a call at 4:09 p.m. Sunday and were on the scene two minutes later, according to Aspen Skiing Co. Bardwell described DeWeese as an exceptional snowboarder who hit a bad, slushy spot on the mountain.