Rediscovering Myself Through the Golden Age Games

“I realized I needed to get moving again. Staying home too much wasn’t good for me,” said Army Veteran Corey Walton, reflecting on the moment he knew something in his life needed to change. 

“At one time I had pretty much shut down,” said Army Veteran Sharon Campbell. “But joining the Golden Age Games and interacting with other Veterans going through the same things… it allowed me to get out and socialize.” 

Walton and Campbell, two Veterans on very different paths, chose to take the initial step to ask for help to find their way back to themselves. That act of courage and that willingness to ask for help was the turning point that led them toward healing and the National Veterans Golden Age Games. 

Walton and Campbell were carrying the weight of PTSD and depression; both had pushed through for decades. 

Walton, who served 21 years in the Army, said the Golden Age Games gave him something he didn’t realize he had been missing: connection.  Instead of sitting alone at home, he found camaraderie, peace, and joy simply by being around other Veterans who understood life after service. 

“Being around other Veterans who’ve carried similar experiences or disabilities reminds you that you’re not alone,” said Walton. “It gives you a chance to open up and to feel understood again.” 

Campbell, a 30‑year Army Veteran who retired in 2015, said the Games became part of reclaiming her identity after years of holding trauma. 

“I suffer from PTSD, and my mental health doctor suggested that I join recreational therapy,” said Campbell. “After three years of therapy, I was finally convinced… and I started playing pickleball.” 

 It was the moment she knew healing was possible. Campbell not only reconnected socially with the Games but rediscovered her confidence, placing fourth in the power walk out of 150 women her first year.  

This year marks Walton’s first year attending the Golden Age Games. As he prepares for the upcoming competition, his goal is simple. He plans to keep moving forward, physically, mentally, and socially.  

For both Campbell and Walton, the Golden Age Games are far more than an athletic event. They offer Veterans a way to heal through recreation therapy while improving their overall health. 

“It’s OK to talk to someone,” said Campbell. 

“It’s OK to say you need help,” said Walton. 

Their stories reflect what so many Veterans face in silence: the weight of PTSD, depression, and long‑held pain. But they also show that one step, one call, or one conversation can open the door to healing. 

The VA’s Recreation Therapy programs, mental health services, and suicide prevention resources are here for every Veteran, at every stage. No one has to carry their struggles alone. 

If you or a Veteran you know is struggling, reach out and ask for help. Connection saves lives. 
Your story matters. Your healing matters. 

For Walton and Campbell, joining Golden Age Games helps them feel like themselves again. They hope their experience encourages other Veterans to give it a try and find their own strength.