I participated as a volunteer to assist with the veterans’ ski/board day. Three of us from the Tri-Cities carpooled to Bluewood early to meet our group of vets from the hospital in Walla Walla. We had no knowledge of the disabilities our vets might possess.
On the way, we discussed our unknown expectations and agreed that even with our vastly different backgrounds, we all possessed people and communication skills.
The day progressed as scheduled. I was paired with a skier who was 100 percent disabled due to vision/perception problems and half lung power. His motor skills were quite good, but his total lack of depth perception and inability to interpret the terrain made skiing tenuous.
By midday, I determined that a visible tree line and a skier to follow allowed him to respond and anticipate the vagaries of the hill. By the end of the day he was making linked turns on an intermediate slope with comfort and at a reasonable speed. I was as thrilled as he was!
I look forward to spending another day on the slopes with these deserving and appreciated vets. With Bluewood picking up lunch and a pass, my total expense for the day was half a tank of gas split three ways. I found it to be an immensely satisfying day on the slopes with delightful company.
Charles Keiser, USAF Veteran
VFW member