CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- A group of wounded veterans conquered the rapids at Charlotte’s Whitewater Center on Friday, honing their kayak skills as a form of recovery and comradery.
The Whitewater Center is just the beginning for these veterans. They are training to kayak the Grand Canyon.
If you want to learn a thing or two about facing your fears, keep reading.
“I served from 1985 to 1994 and active-duty. Before I got shot and lost my eyesight," said veteran Lonnie Bedwell.
“An explosive device detonated next to us and it killed my team leaders next to me and I lost on my sight,” said Steve Baskas, veteran.
This team of veterans are all completely blind.
“Our mantra is moving is living” said Baskas.
"Building up confidence is healing. We just lean on each other all the time," said Bedwell.
Following the voices of volunteer instructors the team is learning what it means to come back around.
“When we do it as a team we don’t feel alone” said Baskas.
“I stare into this steel dark world but getting out on the water, it allows me to see the world and feel the world,” said Baskas.
This nonprofit, Team River Runner, is starting a Charlotte chapter and are looking for participants and volunteers. Click here for more information.