Stories

Tag: Invictus Games

Breast Cancer Survivor proud to represent Army on Team US at Invictus Winter Games
January 14, 2025 — Bryce Ewing's Army career was cut short by a breast cancer diagnosis at 23, but she has found new purpose through adaptive sports. As a medically retired Aviation Operations Specialist and mother of two from Warner Robins, Georgia, Ewing credits adaptive sports with improving her mental health and confidence. Training rigorously, she will compete in swimming, rowing, seated volleyball, and snowboarding at the first Winter Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada. Despite having no prior experience in snowboarding, she embraces the challenge, highlighting the supportive community of coaches and teammates. Ewing's journey reflects resilience and the power of adaptive sports in recovery, providing her with physical and emotional strength and a sense of global camaraderie. Proudly representing Team US, she encourages others to watch the Winter Invictus Games for inspiration and support... MORE

Retired Army Spc. Bryce Ewing at her first powerlifting meet in Atlanta, Georgia, May 2024.

One Moment in Time
January 23, 2024 — Brandi Evans, a retired Army sergeant and medic, exemplifies the power of kindness and selflessness in the world of adaptive sports. Despite her own competitive drive and success, Evans made a pivotal decision at the 2018 Invictus Games in Sydney, Australia, to support a fellow athlete from the UK, Naomi Adie, in securing a bronze medal, a moment now etched in Invictus history. Evans's journey from injury to mentorship at the Fort Bliss Soldier Recovery Unit underscores the transformative impact of adaptive reconditioning and competitive sports on recovery and resilience. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and determination for soldiers facing adversity, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and community support in overcoming challenges... MORE

Retired Army Sgt. Brandi Evans (right) and Royal Air Force Corporal Naomi "Nomes" Adie show their bond as Aide crosses the finish line to win the bronze after the 1500-meter wheelchair race in Sydney at the 2018 Invictus Games.

I’ve been able to take my disability and help others.
January 12, 2024 — Retired Army 1st Lt. Christopher Parks recounts his life-altering experience after contracting a flesh-eating bacteria, leading to the loss of his leg. Despite the initial shock and challenges, Parks found solace and purpose in adaptive sports, particularly wheelchair basketball, which became his passion. He went on to compete internationally in various adaptive sports events, finding camaraderie and empowerment. Today, Parks and his wife are dedicated to helping others facing similar disabilities, exemplifying resilience and the power of community support. Through his journey, Parks emphasizes the importance of accepting change, seeking help, and never giving up, offering hope and inspiration to others navigating similar paths... MORE

Retired Army 1st Lt. Chris Parks, with his sense of humor and dedication to improvement.

You can never be 100% for anybody else if you are not 100% yourself.
January 2, 2024 — Retired Army Staff Sgt Ross Alewine reflects on his journey through the Army Recovery Care Program (ARCP) after sustaining multiple injuries during deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Despite physical and emotional challenges, he found purpose and resilience through adaptive sports, ultimately becoming a champion in the Warrior and Invictus Games. Alewine emphasizes the importance of the ARCP beyond sports, highlighting its role in holistic recovery through various outlets like music, art, and yoga. He now shares his experiences with soldiers, advocating for self-care, adaptation, and embracing a new, better version of oneself post-injury. Alewine encourages soldiers to utilize the tools provided by the program and embrace daily challenges for personal growth and success... MORE

U.S. Army SSG Ross Alewine, right, is congratulated by Silver Medalist U.S. Air Force SrA Rafael Morfinenciso, center, and Bronze Medalist U.S. Army SSG Altermese Kendrick after Alewine won the Gold Medal as Ultimate Champion during the Closing Ceremony at the 2018 Department of Defense Warrior Games.