Building the Dream...Vision, Hard Work and Accomplishment!
Hi, My name is Bob Bardwell. My wife's name is Jode, we have four teenage daughters, Hannah, age 16 and Lydia, Abigail and Elizabeth, age 13. I was involved in a heavy construction accident in 1973 leaving me paralyzed from the waist down. My future was dependant on me choosing to become a victor over a victim. 
In 1986, I founded the National Wheelchair Sports Camp, which has now served well over 1000 physically challenged kids & adults from across the country and several foreign countries. I am also the Founder and Director of the Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch Inc., since 1976, which serves 22,000 people annually.
The Miracle lodge was a dream to provide adequate housing for all and any disability, as well as serve the adult population. My reason for getting to the starting line of this 5 million dollar project was based on a special saying, "If God is in your dream, no request is too extreme."
We have nearly reached the finish line after 9 years of planning and construction, nearly 40,000 volunteer hours of labor, 1000+ people giving generously of their finances, sacrifice, faith, labor and encouragement. In addition, 120 companies from 12 states have provided materials for this beautiful building that is heated and cooled through a geo-termal system. Jan, our cook has prepared 5,000 for the workers. This 33,000 square foot facility has appropiately named itself the 'Miracle Lodge'. After all this, the 'MIRACLE LODGE' is ready for your visit and inspection by attending our GRAND OPENING.
The Miracle lodge at Ironwood opened in November of 2007 with 20 of the 28 rooms ready for occupancy. It is really special now to see the miracles happening on the inside in the hearts and living of those who have been coming for retreats. We are now ready for your conferences, family reunions, outings, and corporate get-aways.
Our phrase, 'country & calm, because city and clutter are taken' seems to be the feedback we are getting from everyone staying in the lodge. This is our first adult-friendly facilities, so it is extra special hosting these retreats.
