%aN: uae on th sine pen! Sane anay seon auc og iy“ie fg 1eaeeya ey ay Ss btui ceiA mos ."hswy ih anducted al 4d aaN aNey ton tacgf hae f &bea a ad welCg aewind teeucth by “ath nt 4‘na OF SPORTS (NAPSA)—An amazing group of bowling enthusiasts recently proved that even a catastrophic disability can be overcome through inner strength and perseverance. The five self-named “Spudinators”—Art Motz, Jim Near, Carl Blush, Jerry Praegitzer and Bob Schaney—competed in the 18" National Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Golden Age Games in California. Collectively, they won 14 medals in bowling, swimming, horseshoes and shuffleboard. “These veterans, who represent every branch of the military, are an inspiration to people who think their lives are over when faced with a catastrophic disability,” said Valerie Duffy, a VA service coordinator for the visually impaired. Each of the Spudinators, who range in age from 60 to 83, is legally blind and a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces. They are also all members of the Blinded Veterans Association (BVA). In addition, Praegitzer was chosen to receive the prestigious Challenge Award, presented to the veteran “who best exhibits exceptional sportsmanship, strength of character and the overall spirit of the games.” “The veterans who participate in the games send a clear message that exercise, fitness and a com- petitive spirit can help to defy the negative effects of age, injury or illness,” said EdwardS. BanasSr., commander-in-chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. “These games provide inspiration to countless Americans who seek to live a healthy andactivelife.” The Spudinators are a prime example of the success of Visual Photo credit: John Mangan, Boise, Idaho VA Medical Center The victorious “Spudinators,” along with VIST Coordinator Valerie Duffy (center, right) prove that, with the right help, no obstacle is too difficult. Impairment Services Teams (VISTs), which have been established in many VA medical centers and outpatient clinics, specifically to provide coordinated outpatient services to blinded veterans. The VIST Coordinator invites and encourages eligible blinded veterans to come in for an annual review of their physical, social and psychological needs plus a review of benefits. The Coordinator then recommends whatever services are appropriate. BVA has, since its inception in 1945, positively influenced the development of programs such as VIST. BVA traces its roots back to a group of veterans who lost their sight during World WarII. In the process of their physical and psychological recovery, they got together at an Army hospital in Connecticut and founded the Association. For more information, visit www.bva.org or call 1800-669-7079.
