Andrews eyeing trip to Veterans Games

Monday, June 23, 2008

No one appreciates competing in sports more than Carl Andrews.

It's no wonder he rushes his wife, Carol, to complete the registration for the annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games each year. The event is limited to 650 participants.

"(The Games) is something he looks forward to," Carol Andrews said. "When we get the packet in the mail, he reminds me to hurry up and get it done."

Carl Andrews, 62, plans to participate in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games from July 25-29 in Omaha, Neb.

Carl Andrews, a U.S. Navy Vietnam veteran, had his back crushed twice, leaving him paralyzed from his back down.

Since then, he's overcome skin, prostate and bladder cancer, a heart attack and a stroke, and is currently battling lung cancer, severe sleep apnea, diabetes and a broken left leg.

"Realizing my medical problems, this encourages me to keep trying and fighting," Andrews said. "Plus, the camaraderie of meeting new friends and looking for them every year. It encourages me to see new vets.

"You see new vets transform from someone that has lost all hope to 'hey, I can do this.' The transformation on their face is worth it all."

Before Andrews can go, he needs to raise the money for the trip. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs pays for first-time competitors, but returning participants must pay their own way to the Games, excluding meals.

"It costs $1,500 to go to the Games," Andrews said.

Andrews has $350 in sponsorships through All-State Insurance, American Legion Post #37, Carville's Auto Mart, Double A Alignment and his daughter, Geri Simmons. He needs another $1,150 in sponsorship money.

Andrews gives his sponsors an 8x10 photo of him participating in the Games and a souvenir plus an advertisement on the back of his wheelchair. The donation is tax deductible. Andrews needs sponsorship by July 15. Donations can be mailed to him at 440 Florence Road, Grand Junction, 81504.

He is competing in bowling, motor rally, nine ball and slalom. His goal is to win four gold medals. Last year, he won one gold, two silver and one bronze medal. Andrews competes in the International Master's division.

The slalom course includes obstacles like bed mattresses, chains and ropes for the wheelchair participants to maneuver. The course also requires participants to go forward and backward. Andrews holds the slalom course record for his division.

The rally includes trivia questions about the history of the area where the Games take place.

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