Golden Age Games Triumph: Veterans Inspiring Journey to Health and Wellness

After leaving the Air Force and going through a personal breakup, Air Force Veteran Sharon Sotero found herself increasingly sedentary and depressed. “I barely left the house for 18 years, only venturing out for essential activities like doctor visits,” she recalls.

At her heaviest, Sharon reached 325 pounds and knew she needed help. That help came from the Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks (VHSO). During a visit to her primary care doctor, Sharon learned about the MOVE! Weight Management Program. VA’s MOVE!® program is designed to help Veterans adopt healthier lifestyles, achieve their health goals, and manage their weight effectively. MOVE! is about more than just weight loss; it aims to enhance overall wellbeing by building confidence and ability in reaching health objectives, offering practical tools and strategies for healthy eating and increased physical activity.

Sharon enrolled in the MOVE! program four times, starting and stopping along the way. She never stopped trying and over three and a half years, she lost an incredible 178 pounds.

 “I had both physical and emotional weight that I needed to shed,” Sharon explained. “I finally took full advantage of all that VHSO had to offer to get healthy again. I learned about a group of Veterans that trained for the Golden Age Games in 2020, and that group changed my life.”

This transformative group is led by Bradley Anderson, an occupational therapist and Golden Age Games coach at VA Fayetteville Arkansas Health Care System. Every Wednesday, you can find Brad and his group of Veterans working out together, fostering both physical health and camaraderie. “My goal is to get Veterans excited about their health and well-being,” Brad says. “Each week, I witness Veterans of all ages lowering their blood pressure, reducing their risk of falls, and improving their overall quality of life.”

Sharon has competed in the Veteran Golden Age Games for the past three years and is excited to compete again at this year’s games in Memphis, TN. She participates in track, bowling, boccia, and shot put. 

“I would have never believed I could participate in the Golden Age Games 10 years ago,” Sharon said. “I’ve met friends, and we have all traveled to different states to compete in the Veterans Golden Age Games. My new goal is to win medals!”

Reflecting on her transformative journey, Sharon shares her tips for success with others: avoid processed foods, exercise every day, take advantage of the benefits and opportunities VHSO has to offer, and never give up, no matter your age.

By embracing the support and resources available through VHSO and the MOVE! program, Sharon Sotero has not only reclaimed her health but also discovered a new community and a renewed sense of purpose. Her story proves that it’s never too late to start over and achieve greatness.

                                                                        ###