VA New England Healthcare System

Women Veterans take to the slopes

The VA Boston Healthcare System in partnership with NEHSA and Mount Sunapee the held 7th Annual Women Veterans Ski Appreciation Day for Women Veterans of all ages and abilities on March 1st.

Women Veterans who receive their healthcare across VA New England Healthcare Systems were invited to be appreciated on the slopes of Mount Sunapee, NH.  Staff from NEHSA, Mount Sunapee, and VA medical centers were on hand to support special needs at the 7^th annual event attended by 32 women Veterans. 

"Opportunity like this can be a life changer," said Pauline Nadeau, USAF, Chief Master Sergeant.  "I don't think you can quantify how significant an experience like this is."  Pauline gets her care at Manchester VA and hopes to see many other women join in the fun next year. 

Under sunny skies and on snow covered trails the ladies who have bravely served this country enjoyed comradery, shared laughs and gave one another a hand.  Lift attendants, ski patrol, guests and volunteers showed their appreciation by wearing camouflage ribbons.   For some, skiing was a first-time experience, others were well versed and some enjoyed the day with the support of adaptive equipment and helping hands.

Veteran participants were paired with NEHSA Veteran volunteers in some cases.  Brenda Cabral, Veteran, US Air Force escorted Pauline with the support of Elizabeth Mossi, a physical therapist with Spinal Cord Injury Clinic, Boston Healthcare System. 

"After having participated in this program for twelve years, I can tell you it makes a tremendous difference in the wellness of the Veterans we care for," said Maura Nee, nurse practitioner in the Spinal Cord Clinic, Boston VA Healthcare System.  "What I have experienced is that Veterans will make healthier choices just to make sure they will be able to participate from year to year.  These experiences will also often lead to making better lifestyle choices." 

You can read more in this article in the New Hampshire Union Leader.