I just returned from the NEPVA Bass Tournament on beautiful North Pond in Rome, ME. I am a newbie to NEPVA and bass fishing, and this event was my second event with NEPVA. I attended the Lake Winnipesaukee Bass Event just recently...Let me tell you, I was just blown away in every respect at both of these events!

I am not a disabled veteran but acquired a spinal cord injury years ago that left me a quadriplegic and permanently paralyzed. And while I believe in making the most of one's situations in life, it is not easy going through life in a wheelchair and all that entails. Certainly all of us, disabled or not, need more bright moments in life, things to look forward to, feel welcome, inspired and involved in meaningful, fun and challenging endeavors.

NEPVA is the epitome of all of this and more. First, the organization goes out of its way to reach out to disabled vets and others with spinal cord injuries and related disabilities. These guys and women are remarkable in their spirit, kindness, generosity and friendliness. That is what initially brought me to the Lake Winny event. People like Bill Decoteau and others are committed to opening new horizons for people with disabilities.

It took me a while to get past the disbelief that NEPVA events are essentially free to participants. We all are too aware how the almighty dollar is worshipped in this world. Yet NEPVA through its dedication and fundraising, makes it possible for participants to take part in these events for nada. That's right, you heard it. Of course this does not mean that the events are cheap to put on. That is hardly the case. Securing lodging, food, boats and boaters, volunteers and prizes is a daunting task. And this organization pulls it off with grace and finesse! And yet I am sure there is a lot of stress and sweat involved to accomplish all of this!

NEPVA however functions like a very good team or really a family. Everyone involved seems to care 100%. One thing that blew me away was the diversity of individuals involved in NEPVA events. At Lake Winny and North Pond, ME, each event was a remarkable mix of disabled anglers, NEPVA members, volunteer Bass boaters from their respective Bass Federation Organizations, the infamous NamKnights Harley Davidson Motorcycle Club of New Hampshire, family members, friends, media professionals, and other volunteers. This diverse mix was a truly global community of racial, ethnic, sexual, disabled, income, and otherwise mixed interest community. And we all got along great.

I think the fact that NEPVA is so successful and stands out is due to the tremendous respect and commitment and diversity of everyone. This indeed is rare in today's competitive dog eat dog culture. I know that I am drawn to this organization based on equality, fairness, brotherhood and love, and I am sure that others feel as I do.

I know I have not yet mentioned the details of these great tournaments yet. And trust me, the details and events are nothing but fun, camaraderie and excitement! And while I absolutely loved every minute of these NEPVA events, I feel it is so important to acknowledge the mission, motivation and goodness of everything that NEPVA represents. Because of this organization's amazing spirit; all of their efforts, events and activities come alive in the most wonderful, fun-filled ways.

I look forward to getting more involved in this great organization as a disabled participant but also as a committed volunteer. NEPVA needs and deserves great respect and unselfish efforts from all of society. This organization stands out and gives so much to disabled veterans, others with disabilities, and all involved. I am truly humbled and overwhelmed in having the opportunity to get involved in this great organization.

Cyndy (Disabled Fishing Participant)