By Staff Sgt. David Overson
Physical fitness is important to all Americans, but at times it can be even more important to Veterans who may be getting older, or who suffer from physical or mental complications caused by service connected disabilities.In order to combat these physical or mental complications, adaptive and recreational sports play a pivotal role. Thanks to the adaptive and recreational sports program at New Mexico VA Health Care System’s Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center in Albuquerque, N.M., and VA’s partners – PGA HOPE and Sun Country Golf- Veterans were afforded the opportunity to get out onto the links at the Twin Warriors Golf Club in Bernalillo, New Mexico.“Across the United States, brave men and women have answered the call. They have sacrificed, and they have done their duty honorably,” said golf legend and program spokesman Jack Nicklaus in a PGA HOPE video. “Now as they return home, it’s our duty to look after them. Our mission as Americans must be to ensure their continued support and wellbeing… we are here for you, as you have always been here for us.”The eight-week program is aimed at introducing golf to Veterans with disabilities to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. The curriculum was taught by PGA professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency. The program was funded by PGA REACH and supplemented by PGA Section Foundations, so the cost was free to all Veterans.Laura Miller, PGA HOPE Program Specialist for PGA REACH, expressed her personal feelings about the program and the benefit Veterans gain by getting out and playing more golf.“The game of golf has the power to change lives,” said Miller. “The positive feedback we receive from Veterans each year truly validates the impact of the program. Many Veterans have been in dark places, and after participating in the HOPE program, they’ve found a new purpose, a new reason to get out of bed every morning and assimilate within their communities.“Veterans have selflessly served and protected our freedoms, and the opportunity to deliver programming that gets Veterans physically and socially active again is the reason for PGA HOPE. Since its inception, the program has helped thousands of veterans assimilate back into their communities, and it is humbling to know that we are contributing to healthy habits, while creating a positive impact on their lives.”
