A Colorado Journey of Service and Empowerment
Two Marion VA employees, Recreation Therapist Ethan Blumhorst, and Peer Support Specialist, Quest Nelson, traveled to Colorado for the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic. Their experience was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share in their sport with fellow Veterans.
“It was uplifting to see Veterans with various disabilities, pushing themselves to develop new skills, I was in a crowd of people cheering on a paraplegic Veteran, who used adaptive climbing equipment to scale a climbing wall. I learned that we can't let our disabilities define us. We have to continue to push ourselves, challenge ourselves and overcome those challenges to live a fulfilling life.” – Quest Nelson
What is the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic?
The National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic (NDVWSC) is an incredible event that brings together disabled veterans from all over the country to participate in adaptive winter sports. It is a unique opportunity for these Veterans to come together, share experiences and take part in outdoor activities.
“It’s all about moving the body and getting out into nature,” shares Recreation Therapist, Ethan Blumhorst. “Decades of research now have shown the physical as well as mental health benefits of getting outside and moving the body. We all have to continue to find those activities that call to us that change over time just like our bodies do due to injuries, illnesses or time and gravity working us over.”
This event also provides an opportunity for Veterans to learn new skills, build camaraderie and gain confidence through the power of sport.
Marion VA Veteran Employees Share Their Experiences with the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic
Last week, two of our Marion VA Staff were in Colorado supporting the 2023 National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic. Recreation Therapist, Ethan Blumhorst and Peer Support Specialist, Quest Nelson, had the opportunity to serve as kayak instructors as one of a handful of alternate activities.
“It was a hearty reminder of why I have the greatest job in the world especially with those that I am able to serve,” shares Ethan Blumhorst. “We all have shortcomings, but I learned from these Veterans that the secret is to not let those shortcomings define you.”
During sessions Veterans were shown then performed equipment identification, paddlers box with basic stroke drills, and self and team water rescues before just having fun in the water. Veterans were fitted to each kayak with different adaptive equipment used based upon needs and abilities. Ethan and Quest were also able to volunteer in assisting with adaptive equipment in sled hockey and various adaptive ski sleds during the clinic.
Quest Nelson clearly remembers how “every Veteran, who signed up for kayaking, showed up ready to work and ready to learn. The Veterans' enthusiasm certainly made our jobs more enjoyable.” Nelson
The Impact of the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic on Disability Awareness and Veteran Support
The National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic is a unique event that has had a tremendous impact on the lives of disabled veterans and those who support them. The NDVWSC has been held annually since 1987 and continues to be a life-changing event for many disabled veterans. It provides adaptive winter sports activities for veterans with physical or sensory disabilities, giving them the chance to participate in activities they may not have been able to do before.
Ethan and Quest feel that it was inspiring to see how and to learn why these Veterans continue to strive and push themselves to enjoy life to the fullest. “Life can beat you down if you let it, and your mind or even body can feel like a prison, but we also have the power to make it into a palace through actions and outlook,” reflects Ethan on his experience at NDVWSC.
The NDVWSC also serves to raise awareness of disability issues and encourages greater support for Veterans in need. It also provides a opportunities for disabled Veterans to socialize, build relationships, and find camaraderie with other veterans who understand their challenges. This event has been an invaluable resource for many disabled Veterans and their families, providing hope and inspiring others to overcome their disabilities.
Quest Nelson wants us to know that “Veterans, in all, need real friendships, genuine camaraderie, a real belief that we belong to something greater. In fact, this is how we all find strength to deal with our daily struggles.”
How the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic Helps to Empower Participants
The National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic (NDVWSC) is an empowering program for veterans with disabilities. It provides adaptive skiing and snowboarding instruction, therapeutic recreation activities, and other opportunities for veterans to build self-confidence, independence, and camaraderie.
“I was simply amazed by all the Veterans who participated in this clinic. I was blessed and amazed to witness a visually impaired Veteran, pass and blow by several other skiers, who had no apparent limitations.” – Quest Nelson
Through this program, Veterans learn to enjoy the outdoors in a safe and supportive environment. Participants also have access to medical services, counseling sessions, and educational seminars. The NDVWSC offers a unique opportunity for Veterans to gain valuable life skills while enjoying the winter sports they love.