Veterans hit the slope for charity

ELLICOTTVILLE, N.Y. (WIVB) - Veterans are hitting the slopes to enjoy some skiing and get benefits for themselves.

The program for veterans with disabilities was designed to use sports to make their bodies work better. The VA Western New York health care system established the recreational therapy program for vets injured in the line of duty. Some are blind., while others have had limbs amputated or spinal cord injuries.

For the men and women who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation New Dawn and other conflicts, it takes their rehabilitation to a higher level.

Bret Clingan said, "It's nice to get out. Nice to get out on the slopes, never thought I could do it again. But, it's good to do. Definitely if you're a paraplegic or a quadriplegic it's definitely a good experience for them to be able to get out, not sit around the house, especially during the winter months."

Participants get instructions in adaptive alpine, Nordic skiing and other recreational activities.