Visually impaired veterans take part in skiing retreat in Whitefish

The Whitefish Veterans Support Team hosted eight visually impaired veterans for a skiing/snowboarding retreat at Whitefish Mountain Resort from Feb. 26-March 1. 

These veterans are from various locations throughout the United States and have served our country honorably.

WVST teamed up with the DREAM Adaptive program which provided the equipment, passes and professionally trained instructors to lead these veterans down the slopes using verbal descriptions of the mountain terrain and constant verbal or sound cues. Some of the veterans prefer cowbells to follow the instructor while others prefer constant voice commands. Several additional community and WVST volunteers provided one-on-one support for the veterans and their instructors. To learn more about how you can get involved with DREAM go to: dreamadaptive.org.

Many of the visually impaired participants in this retreat have been involved in other extreme sports. One of the veterans, Lonnie Bedwell, who is completely blind lives a full and meaningful life. He has kayaked the most technical waters in the world including the 226-mile stretch of water in the Grand Canyon and has climbed the most challenging mountains. His crowning achievement occurred when he became the first visually impaired veteran to successfully summit Mount Everest. He is likely the first visually impaired man to have skinned up Toni Matt on Whitefish Mountain Resort — in 66 minutes. The Big Mountain Club provided support. Bedwell was named a National Geographic Adventurer of the Year in 2015.

The veterans enjoyed time together on the mountain as well as evenings socializing at private homes and local restaurants with their peers and the local volunteer support team. All airfare, lodging, meals, entertainment and logistics were provided by contributions from WVST donors.

The mission of WVST is to engage veterans and their families in physically challenging and fun activities as well as provide much needed down time. The activities are tailored to individual needs so each person feels a sense of accomplishment. Each event addresses issues unique to military life and transition to civilian life.

The Whitefish Veterans Support Team is a donor-based, charitable organization that is dedicated to providing support and new beginnings for veterans — 92% of donations directly benefit veterans and their families. To learn more and get involved with WVST visit wvstmt.org or email Steve Shea at sshea7876@gmail.com.