Adaptive Cornhole Tournament Opens New Doors for Veterans
VA Augusta’s Blind Rehabilitation Center recently partnered with Recreation Therapy and Occupational Therapy to host an adaptive cornhole tournament, giving Veterans who are blind or visually impaired a new way to stay active and engaged.
Blind Rehabilitation Specialists Diana McMenemy-Deacon and Lindsay Turner led the effort, emphasizing their approach: helping Veterans explore recreational interests through training and adaptive techniques. Staff from multiple departments supported the event, highlighting the power of interdisciplinary teamwork.
Members of the National Veterans Golden Age Games Augusta Team—Eugene Bailey, Lillian Diggs, Charlie Jenkins, Joseph Gomillion and Barbara Devos—also joined the tournament, offering guidance and inspiration. The athletes have competed nationwide and will soon travel to Tampa, Florida, for their next event.
More than 30 Veterans, staff and community partners attended, including participants from the Community Living Center, Volunteer Services and the Augusta Blinded Veterans Association. The tournament provided Veterans with the opportunity to apply adaptive skills learned through Blind Rehabilitation in a supportive, social environment.
One standout was Veteran Cecil Osborn, who discovered through Blind Rehabilitation that he could continue enjoying many of the activities he once loved. Using adaptive techniques and assistive devices, Osborn confidently returned to games like cards, board games and now cornhole.
The event underscored VA Augusta’s commitment to helping Veterans maintain independence, build confidence and explore new possibilities through collaborative, Veteran-centered care.