Trio participates in the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic
Seeing how these guys keep pushing forward despite their challenges really motivates me. The volunteers who give their time so selflessly—it's just amazing. It really touches my heart and keeps me coming back.
Meet some inspiring Atlanta VA Veterans who recently took part in the 39th National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic (NDVWSC) in Snowmass, Colorado, from March 30 to April 5. Veterans Wayne Lawson, Joseph Smith, and Allison Travis joined over 400 Veterans with various disabilities to enjoy a week of exciting adaptive sports and camaraderie.
Wayne Lawson, a lively 73-year-old Vietnam Veteran who served in the Air Force, returned to the clinic for the second year in a row. Despite being legally blind, Wayne showed incredible courage by trying downhill skiing and snowmobiling.
“It’s funny because I usually don’t like cold places,” Wayne joked. “But this experience is beyond inspiring. It’s amazing what these guys can do.”
He recalls being inspired after seeing a totally blind Veteran drive a snowmobile. When asked if he wanted to try, Wayne jumped at the chance, telling staff to let him give it a shot instead of riding along.
“I wear bioptic lenses but don’t drive in Atlanta traffic—I wouldn’t even attempt that!” he chuckled.
What he loves most about the week is the incredible spirit of fellow Veterans.
“The other disabled vets are my heroes. Seeing how these guys keep pushing forward despite their challenges really motivates me. The volunteers who give their time so selflessly—it's just amazing. It really touches my heart and keeps me coming back. I say, just give things a try. When you push yourself, it helps in other parts of life too. Being around others makes me forget about my own struggles for a while.”
During the week, Wayne connected with other Veterans and appreciated the staff’s attentive care.
“They’re dealing with all sorts of disabilities and have learned how to adapt to each person's needs. It’s a totally different experience when people genuinely care about how you function—it’s so special.”
Joseph Smith, a 67-year-old Army Veteran from Louisiana, also attended his fourth NDVWSC. He shared the importance of passing on the knowledge and experiences from Veterans who’ve been there before—"that’s what we’re supposed to do."
Joseph stayed in a room with Wayne, and they motivated each other throughout the week. He tried downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and even tried snowboarding for the first time—something he found both intriguing and a little funny.
“Trying snowboarding was a new adventure for me—definitely a bit of a challenge, but fun!” Joseph credits Dr. Sebastian Robinson, a Recreation Therapist, for encouraging him to participate in these activities.
Over the years, Joseph has met many Veterans through VA sports programs and says the connections are priceless.
“You meet friends you’d never come across otherwise. We often organize meetups and have a blast together. I tell fellow Veterans, don’t be afraid to try something new. You don’t have to be a superstar—just go for it. The atmosphere is fantastic, and the staff make it really enjoyable. It’s a rewarding experience—you’ll do things you never thought possible.”
Allison Travis, a Navy Veteran who served nine years, joined the military after witnessing the 9/11 attacks. She became a nurse practitioner, but had to leave her career following a line-of-duty injury.
“At first, I felt really isolated,” Allison shared. “It’s hard reconnecting with life after what we’ve been through, unless you've served yourself.”
But learning about the VA’s adaptive sports and arts programs changed everything. During the clinic, Allison tried snowboarding at age 70—her first time, and she did it on her first try without falling! She also explored Aspen’s beautiful sights and hot springs.
“This has completely changed my perspective,” she said. “We can keep thriving despite our injuries. I want more Veterans from Atlanta VA to join in these programs—there's so much we can still do.”
Allison is passionate about encouraging other Veterans to get involved.
“If I can do it at 70, so can you. No matter your background or injury—whether it’s TBI, PTSD, or anything else—these adaptive sports are a great way to serve yourself and your fellow Veterans. I hope the VA continues sharing these opportunities so even more of us can enjoy the benefits.”