How the Veterans Wheelchair Games saved a life

What an amazing week in Spokane working for the National Veterans Wheelchair games. If you ever wanted to know just how important the games are, view the above video of an interview with "Rollin" Joe Velasquez after he won the gold medal in table tennis. This made the whole week.

The entire event was incredible. There were great games, dominating performances, colorful characters and inspiring stories like Joe's. If you haven't already, please go visit Xable.com, where you can view game videos, recaps, interviews and highlights from the entire week.

Being around these veteran athletes, witnessing their triumphs and learning their stories, made me better for the experience. Never in my life had I ever been involved in an event like that, and I feel humbled and honored to have been able to work with a great Xable crew in order to tell these people's stories.

Each competitor was more than just an athlete; they were also veterans who served their country. They may have had different injuries or ability levels, but all of them recognized the spirit of these games: camaraderie, friendly competition, and a common bond.

Even guys like Paul Schulte, a superstar wheelchair basketball player who was simply serving as a volunteer at the games, knew just how important the games were:



It was an experience that benefited everyone involved. The overall essence of the games may have been about more than sports, but it was through sports that allowed that essence to come alive. This past week was an example of how sports can bring people together, and make people accomplish things they would have never thought possible.