MANSFIELD — Samuel Johnson has been competing in adaptive athletics since 2016.
Johnson, a Cleveland resident, served in the United States Army as a combat medic for five years. He has spent more than three decades in a wheelchair after sustaining injuries from an automobile accident involving alcohol, which caused Johnson to hit a tree at 110 miles per hour.
Following the accident, Johnson spent two months in a coma and two more on life support.
“One day, I just happened to wake up,” the veteran said during an interview with Richland Source last year.
He was introduced to recreational therapy in Cleveland while attending an annual physical and has been active in adaptive athletics ever since.
Along with weight lifting and obstacle courses, basketball, football, softball, bocce and bowling, Johnson enjoys skiing. Adaptive Sports Connection‘s annual Boundless Hope on the Slopes Veterans Ski Weekend grants him and others the perfect chance to do just that.
Veterans from Cleveland and Columbus will take part in the annual three-day event this winter from Feb. 5 to 7 at Snow Trails in Mansfield. Now in its 27th year, this signature skiing and snowboarding event helps America’s military heroes recover from their physical and emotional injuries sustained while in service.
Serving over 44 counties in Ohio, ASC’s mission is to bring outdoor recreational and therapeutic sports to veterans, children and adults living with a disability, according to a Jan. 20 press release from the organization.
“Boundless Hope on the Slopes helps our veterans reclaim their physical and emotional well-being through sports and outdoor adventure,” Doug Wolf, ASC president and CEO, said in the release.
“The joy and freedom these veterans experience while on the hill provides a foundation for their healing and recovery.”
READ MORE ABOUT JOHNSON’S STORY
‘This is what living life is about,’ says Johnson
In partnership with the Cleveland and Columbus Veterans Affairs, this year’s program has expanded to begin on Feb. 5. Veterans and their families from the Columbus VA will take part in ski lessons, educational workshops, and adaptive equipment fittings.
The following day will be dedicated to veterans from the Cleveland VA, while the Feb. 7 session is for all veterans. The three days encourage connection, community and camaraderie for those who served in the armed forces.
“Here you have a support system that gives you that strength to do this by yourself,” Johnson said in the ASC release. “We encourage each other and when we get together we have a blast. This is what living life is about.”
Through ASC’s partnership with the Cleveland and Columbus VA health network, recreational therapists will be on-site throughout the event. The team will provide expert care and counseling to veterans dealing with numerous physical and psychological injuries, including PTSD, suicidal thoughts and chronic pain, the release said.
Physical activity, such as skiing and snowboarding, is proven to enhance the overall well-being of veterans. Studies show that physical exertion and movement:
● Reduces the symptoms of PTSD.
● Increases determination and inner strength.
● Helps with identity and self-concept.
● Provides a sense of accomplishment.
● Contributes to social well-being.
● Enhances motivation for living.
This event was funded in part by a grant from the United States Department of Veteran Affairs. ASC also thanked Snow Trails Ski Resort and the Qfm-96 Red, White, & Q Fund for their support of Boundless Hope on the Slopes.
A video highlighting last year’s event can be viewed by clicking here.
About Adaptive Sports Connection
Adaptive Sports Connection (ASC) has been dedicated to serving veterans, children and adults with disabilities since forming in 1992.
Located in Powell, ASC’s mission is to break through limitations with adaptive innovation, ensuring people of all abilities the health benefits, freedom and sense of belonging from recreation and outdoor experiences.
The organization is poised to meet the growing demand from across Ohio for accessible and inclusive sports programs. Backed by a team of adaptive sports professionals, ASC is focused on reaching the community’s most vulnerable and underserved populations.