Warrior Profiles

A little about Me

Q. What are your short and long term goals (personal, professional, recovery-related, etc.)?
A. My short term goals include rediscovering my hobbies, focusing on my family, and finding a way to volunteer and give back to my local community. As for long-term goals, I plan to get a Master's degree, find a new career path, and raise a family. I'm eager to travel and discover new adventures in the meantime.

Q. What does it mean to you to represent the Air force at Warrior Games?
A. I am honored to represent the Air Force at the Warrior Games. It's wonderful to be in a competitive arena again, and I'm excited to support my teammates in their endeavors as they all have inspired me to work harder, become stronger, and become a more positive person.

Q. What is the significance of sports/competition? How has it helped you? What does it mean to you?
A. This is the first sports competition I will have participated in since my injury. I was so focused on what I couldn't do that I was no longer living my life. Warrior Games is a personal triumph for me as I am getting out of the house and making fitness a priority. I have also made new friendships that remind me I'm not alone in this process.

Q. How has adaptive reconditioning and sports helped in your transition and recovery? What adaptive reconditioning activities do you participate in?
A. Adaptive sports have reminded me that I create my own boundaries, many of which are not caused by my injury. It's simple to get into the "I can't" mindset; instead, these initiatives encourage me to push myself. In this past year, I have stepped out of my comfort zone and rock climbed, skied, hiked Yosemite, cycled in new locations, and discovered archery and shooting with my husband.

Q. What advice do you have for future athletes?
A. Try something new. The only individual who can stop you from accomplishing your goals is you. I encourage all athletes to step outside their comfort zone and venture into a new sport, make a close friend, or even find a unknown passion. The support and encouragement from this amazing group of people is astounding.