Central Iowa Veterans elevate themselves, build confidence through climbing
The effort that Veterans put in at the therapeutic rock-climbing session sponsored by VA Central Iowa hospital is reflective of the journey many of them have taken over their military careers.
Reaching, straining, striving for the top.
The effort that Veterans put in at the therapeutic rock-climbing session sponsored by VA Central Iowa hospital is reflective of the journey many of them have taken over their military careers.
Every month, depending on Veteran interest and availability, Klay Queck, a recreational therapist at VA Central Iowa, leads a group of Veterans of varying abilities, to an indoor climbing venue here in Central Iowa to help them with their recovery.
“We do this to help keep these Veterans active,” said Queck, who is also an Army reservist. “Climbing is a great, safe exercise that gives these Veterans a real feeling of accomplishment and confidence.”
Queck began this inspirational program two years ago when he had gotten feedback from Veterans that they wanted more active therapy options.
And it is active. A normal night climbing the 37-foot wall means a couple hours of tying ropes, tightening shoes, and donning harnesses, all leading to intense exercise that gives the Veterans an invigorating workout and allows them to work together in a collegial atmosphere.
Since implementing the program, Queck says rock climbing has been a huge success with dozens of Veterans taking part.
Crystal McManus has been in the Army National guard and reserve for 29 years and got involved because she thought this would be a great way to stay active along with her other interests. She also sees social benefits.
“I like kayaking and biking and staying active,” said McManus. “And most importantly, it’s safe, because we are on a belay and so you can stay active and at the same time meet other Veterans.”
The belay is a safety system that allows climbers to be secure to a rope while they climb. Queck is so committed to the program that he earned his belay certification so he can directly lead more activities for the group.
These monthly climbing outings usually include 6 to 8 Veterans who enjoy the comradery with Veterans who understand what they have been through.
“To help these Veterans on their health journey, we offer a wide variety of therapeutic activities,” said Director of VA Central Iowa Lisa Curnes. “We work to provide the healthcare and activities that the Veterans deserve and have earned.”
McManus added that rock climbing is physically tiring, and mentally invigorating.
“From the first time I did it as a beginner,” she said, “it has improved my upper body strength and also built my confidence each time I did it.”
And these Veterans respond to the therapy with a renewed interest and energy.
“When I first heard about this, I thought it sounded fun,” added McManus. “You can be all levels of experience, from skilled to beginner. I think everyone should try it.”
This program is one of several recreational activities VA Central Iowa officially supports to help Veterans on their journey from military to civilian health. Other programs include therapeutic and mindfulness activities such as yoga, and creative writing. They also offer more active outings such as pickleball, kayaking and Tai Chi.
VA Central Iowa Veterans are welcome to take part in this and other activities. More information is available at https://www.va.gov/central-iowa-health-care/events/
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