Swim, Pedal, Inspire!

Hope For The Warriors® has many amazing members of Team Hope For The Warriors® across the country and today we highlight Pam in Tampa.  Pam served in the United States Army from 1989 until 2006.  In 2002, she was crushed by a generator during a training exercise, causing paralysis below her waist.  She also lost the use of her right arm.

Two years ago, Pam attended an adaptive skiing clinic.  Although a bit reluctant at first, the clinic opened up a new world for Pam, giving her the opportunity to enjoy an outdoor sport with others who were experiencing the same challenges.  She has continued skiing and attending the clinics whenever her schedule permits.

Pam also participated last year in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games and is slated to travel to Philadelphia in August for this year’s games.  She competes in the sports of bowling, air gun and archery, using adaptive equipment and techniques to make each sport work for her.  For example, to compete in archery, she uses her left arm and her teeth.  Pam loves the games—both for the competition and the camaraderie that is built among veterans who like herself, are overcoming incredible obstacles to compete.

Pam has also joined Team Hope For The Warriors® Tampa and with the help of Karla, the Team Leader, she is ready to take on her next challenge—the triathlon.  Team Hope For The Warriors® Tampa, has trained alongside Pam to ensure that she can complete each segment of this event.  This has meant many long training rides on a handcycle and learning how to swim, all powered by just her left arm. 

Pam is ready and will compete in a tri relay over the Easter weekend.  The following weekend, Pam will compete in her first triathlon solo—St. Anthony’s Triathlon in St. Petersburg, Florida. Team leader, Karla, will be there to help with the transition in and out of the bay and will follow for the bike and run. 

We will be cheering for Pam as she takes on this new sport.  And since we are in National Volunteer Week, we thank Karla and other members of Team Hope For The Warriors® Tampa, who have done so much for the Team and their community.

If you live in the Tampa area, consider joining Team Hope For The Warriors® Tampa.  Learn more.

Learn more about the Team across the country and join today!