Our Distinctive Angels had the opportunity to volunteer with STARS (Steamboat Adaptive Recreational Sports) this Saturday, January 23rd and Monday, January 25th for their annual STARS and Stripes Heroes Camp.

The STARS and Stripes Heroes Camp is for recently injured veterans or "Wounded Warriors" who have sustained some type of permanent physical disability after September 11, 2001.

After a morning of nordic skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding or snow biking the camp participants came to the STARS office where our Distinctive Angels were waiting to help serve soup and sandwiches.

There were so many amazing heroes at this camp, with incredible stories. One of the veterans who really stood out was Lonnie Bedwell. Lonnie is a former Navy Petty Officer 1st class who was blinded in a hunting accident. He doesn't let that slow him down though! He spent the morning skiing, and then came in for lunch where we asked him questions about his claim to fame. Lonnie is the first ever visually impaired kayaker to complete the Colorado River, through the Grand Canyon.

One of our Distinctive Angels, Sharon Pace Ward approached Lonnie for a photo. Lonnie happily obliged. Much to our surprise as Sharon crouched down next to Lonnie for the photo he put up a finger, "Wait, wait. Just a minute..." He turned toward Sharon and swooped her up onto his lap! He asked if there were any dancers present, as he wanted to swing dance in the plaza later! 

Our Distinctive Angels left STARS inspired, bellies full of homemade soup made by volunteers, and our hearts warmed.

To find out more about Lonnie Bedwell's Grand Canyon adventure click HERE

To find out more about the amazing STARS program offered here in Steamboat Springs click HERE