AMP IS PROUD TO SUPPORT OUR VETERANS — BOTH AS ATHLETES AND AS ATHLETES WHO GIVE BACK.
Karen, Harold and Susan are Headed to Snowmass
Board member Karen and athlete Harold are heading to Snowmass, Colorado on March 31, 2025, to attend the 39th Annual National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic. Both are returning athletes representing AMP!
Karen has been an active mono-skier for the past few years, while Harold is new to the sport, having just started skiing this season. Regardless of where they are on their journey, both are in for an incredible experience—sharing the mountain, connecting with fellow veterans, and enjoying the freedom and adventure of the great outdoors.
We’re honored to be part of their journey and can’t wait to cheer them on!
As a disabled veteran who relies on a wheelchair full time, my life often ends where the sidewalk ends. I can’t go beyond that boundary because my wheelchair doesn’t go on grass, snow, gravel, or anything else. So I’m usually stuck sitting in the parking lot or observation area while everyone else plays.
Adaptive sports changed that for me. Being able to participate in activities that have been adapted to my needs has truly changed my life. Now I have the chance to be a player—not someone sitting on the sidelines.
Organizations like Adaptive Mobility Providers (AMP) give disabled veterans the opportunity to get active, get moving, and get off the couch, where so many of us have been for far too long. But it’s more than just sports. The bonds we form and the community we build with other veterans—that’s a benefit you can’t measure. Friendships built during moments of personal growth are the ones that last a lifetime. They offer the support systems we miss when we leave the military. We might not always relate to others back home, but we understand each other.
As veterans, we get used to taking care of ourselves and each other. When organizations like AMP step in to support us as well, it’s truly heartwarming. We can’t always find the words to express how much that means, but we can tell you it makes a real difference in our lives. - Karen
Adam credits Jim “JD” Derrick, AMP Volunteer, member of AMP’s Ski & Ride Training Team, volunteer Ski & Ride Instructor at the NDVWSC and Sandy Trombetta, one of the founding father’s of the NDVWSC, with saving his life — quite literally — JD at the event and Sandy for having the vision as a founding father of the NDVWSC.
“Hey Brother, I don’t think I’d even be here if I never met you on that mountainside @WSC in 2012!”
JD you are special because you — and and others like you — make the WSC so amazing till this day. I have the privilege of your friendship and belief in me—something I will never be able to repay.
One of the only reasons I’m still here on this earth is because of what you instilled in me. Thanks to you, I have the confidence and belief in myself to adapt and overcome. You are truly the Hero that believed in me & helped save my life!!! Love You Brother!
Adam’s testimonial to Sandy:
Sandy you are a True Hero …look at all have changed in so many Veterans and Civilians lives; it is freakin awesome. Thank you, Sandy for all your time and dedication. Your actions he have not only had a hand in saving my life but 10’s of Thousands of Veterans lives; you’ve changed the perspective in civilians and society knowing that one act of kindness/compassion at a time began to change the perspective and understanding that adaptive sports not only heals us and builds us up but changes & saves Veterans suffering — holding on by a string — who then attend WSC and go back home grounded and grow in more ways then one can even begin to imagine! Sandy you ARE A REAL HERO!!!!!!!
Real Victories, Real Veterans: Adam Greathouse
DAV's 2020 Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year – Adam Greathouse
Meet Sandy Trombetta, one of the original founders of the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic (NDVWSC).
Forty years ago, Sandy had a bold vision—one that few believed in at the time. 99% of healthcare professionals, including VA doctors and nurses, thought his dream was dangerous and counter-therapeutic. But that remaining 1%—those passionate, determined Sandys if the world—believed. Sandy stood beside his belief, gave his all, and refused to fail. He knew the power of the mountain, the freedom of movement, and the healing potential of adaptive sports. Sandy sacrificed and worked tirelessly—not for recognition, but to honor the sacrifices made by our veterans. He was on a mission.
In the winter of 2025, I was invited to try snow skiing for the second time in my life. On my first lesson with AMP, I was immediately hooked. I loved the speed and the way I could control my turns and balance as I learned how to traverse down the mountain.
In those first few sessions, the AMP instructors gave me clear, specific guidance that made me more confident and successful with every run. I’ve only had five lessons with AMP so far, but I’ve already learned something important: the only barrier to becoming a better skier is myself. If I keep showing up, listening, and practicing what they teach me, I know I can reach my goal of being a totally independent skier.
As I prepare to head to Snowmass, I’m excited for the chance to keep learning from incredible instructors and other athletes. Every time I get on the hill, I pick up something new—whether it’s improving my balance, my turns, or my mindset. I know this year will be a breakthrough for me. Thanks to AMP, I’m becoming the skier I always wanted to be. - Harold
AMP is Proud of our Veterans who Continue to Give Back!
Karen serves on AMP’s Board of Directors, helping to guide our mission and expand opportunities for adaptive athletes. Byram provides essential on-the-ground support during our programs, ensuring everything runs smoothly for athletes and volunteers alike. And Jason has been instrumental in coaching, providing Owen with stellar riding lessons out on the hill.
Their dedication, both on and off the snow, is what makes our AMP community so special. We are grateful for their leadership, service, and passion for making adaptive sports accessible to all!
Veterans from the Hines VA joined AMP at Wilmot Mountain this season, proving there are NO BOUNDARIES when it comes to accessing adaptive sports on snow.
Their determination and enthusiasm inspire us all to break barriers and embrace the freedom of the slopes!
Karen is a Dedicated Board Member Helping to Spread AMP’s Mission
I first attended the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic in Aspen four years ago, at a time when I was just beginning to discover adaptive sports. What I found there changed my life. I realized I was not alone in my struggles—and that simple truth was a blessing I never expected.
“Miracles on the Mountains” isn’t just a theme for the event; it’s what actually happens there. The volunteers, sponsors, and staff work tirelessly to ensure that every veteran experiences as much of life as possible during that week. Whether it’s black diamond skiing, soaking in hot springs, or trying something brand new, we’re encouraged to push our limits and redefine what’s possible.
I’m fortunate to participate in other adaptive sports throughout the year. But for many veterans, this is the one event they’re able to attend. It’s not just about the activities; it’s about the comprehensive support. From assistance with luggage to ADA accommodations and medical care, every detail is handled so that we can focus on living—on having fun—instead of worrying about the logistics of travel or accessibility.
Discovering a world where we can be players, not just spectators, is life-changing. We return home with a renewed passion for life that carries over into our daily routines. It makes us happier, healthier, and stronger—not just as individuals, but as human beings. - Karen
