They know the meaning of service, valor and sacrifice. They proudly defended their country, and now these warriors are facing a different battle—an ongoing battle to overcome the visible and invisible wounds of war.
Volunteers from Booz Allen Hamilton joined more than 320 Veterans this week at the 25th Annual National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic, which gives disabled Veterans the opportunity to participate in adaptive skiing and other recreational activities that test their new-found abilities and help them develop new lifestyle skills.
“We are humbled and thankful to be a part of such an incredible event,” said Booz Allen Principal Beth Mahan. “This clinic illustrates the power of recreational therapy, the commitment of Veterans Affairs to providing the best possible care for our Veterans, and most importantly, the courage and determination of our nation’s heroes.”
Veterans with qualifying disabilities, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations and visual impairments, spent the week challenging themselves to activities they never thought they would do again—from downhill skiing to rock climbing, sled hockey and scuba diving.
“I don’t know if I would be alive today if it weren’t for this event,” said Stan Munson, who was disabled during a vehicle accident in Germany 30 years ago. He explained that he tried to get a job for 15 years following his accident, and when he finally did, he was fired within the first month.
“I was ready to give up, and that’s when I came to the clinic,” he said, describing it as an emotional epiphany. “I will never, ever let myself give up again.”
Munson said he works out all year to be in shape for the clinic, and as soon as he gets home, he marks his calendar, “51 weeks to go.”
In addition to the adaptive activities, the clinic gives Veterans, family members and caregivers an opportunity to interact with others who share their experiences and learn new ways to work together to overcome the challenges of their disabilities.
“We work with the VA and the Department of Defense every day to help support their missions. One of the most important, and gratifying, things we do is to help them provide services to Wounded Warriors and their families in a more efficient and effective way,” said Booz Allen Vice President Kevin Vigilante. “This clinic gives us the chance to experience first-hand the dedication of our clients and the impact of the VA programs we support.”
