Blinded Veterans Association

05/29/2026

Sight loss doesn't stop our members from living life to the fullest. Read the latest happenings within the BVA community in this weeks edition of BVA Happenings.
https://conta.cc/49t23pU

05/25/2026

As we observe Memorial Day, the weight of the day often leads to reflection on the complex relationship between duty, sacrifice, and the ongoing support owed to those who have served. National Executive Director and National Legislative Director Lea Rowe shares her thoughts below:

Earlier today, I was deeply moved by the wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. It was a powerful honor to witness Craig Morgan’s performance, which served as a poignant tribute to those we have lost and a reminder of the enduring strength of the veteran community.

At the Blinded Veterans Association, we recognize that while today is a day of solemn remembrance, it is also a call to action. Our work to support the men and women who returned home with life-altering vision loss remains more critical than ever.

In my role as National Executive Director and National Legislative Director, I view our mission through the lens of that same spirit of service: we honor the fallen by ensuring the quality of life, independence, and dignity of our living veterans. We do this through tireless legislative advocacy—fighting for standardized clinical care and the protection of essential services—and by championing the accessibility technologies that empower veterans to navigate their world with autonomy.

Today, as we pause to honor those who gave everything, the BVA remains dedicated to the promise we make to every veteran who has served: you are not alone, and your service is not forgotten.

How are you and your organizations honoring the spirit of service this Memorial Day?

05/23/2026

Did you receive yesterday's BVA Happenings? If not, don't miss out! Read it at https://conta.cc/4tIEf8F.

05/15/2026

A new edition of BVA Happenings has arrived! Read all the fun news and events that happened this week at https://conta.cc/4tWXrzX.

Did you miss last weeks edition? You can catch up at https://conta.cc/49EFTRx.

05/08/2026

BVA Ambassadog Calvin makes a great golf buddy alongside his guide dog duties 🫡

We tee off Monday at the PGA HOPE Secretary's Cup! Cal, Kev's guide dog, is ready to go in his new Oakley Meta glasses and PGA HOPE hat!

PGA HOPE Pacific Northwest PGA Foundation Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind Calvin's Chronicle

05/07/2026

We are excited to support this veteran team this year!

Secretary’s Cup: Meet the Team

This is a historic moment for the Pacific Northwest PGA Foundation.

For the first time ever, our Pacific Northwest Section will compete in the Secretary’s Cup, the premier veteran tournament in the country, held alongside the PGA Championship.

This invitation reflects not only competitive excellence, but the strength of our veteran community.

PGA HOPE changes lives. It restores connection. It builds purpose. It creates identity beyond service. This team is that impact in action.

Meet the Team:

• Joshua Cantrell - U.S. Air Force, Staff Sergeant, 6 years of service
Now a PGA Professional and the team leader.
“PGA HOPE helps recreate the bonds from active duty and supports veterans as they work through real-world challenges and recovery.”

• Clint Stayton - U.S. Army, Sergeant First Class (E-7), 16 years of service
Lost his leg above the knee. Found a new path through golf.
“The injury put me in a tailspin. Through HOPE I adapted, found a new way to play, and haven’t stopped since.”

• Chris Houle - U.S. Coast Guard, Petty Officer 2nd Class (E-5), 7 years of service
Severe injury, transitioned out of service, but found purpose again.
“Through PGA HOPE, golf became more than a game. It gave me structure, purpose, and peace I hadn’t felt in a long time.”

• Ralph Brown - U.S. Navy, Petty Officer 2nd Class (E-5), 7 years of service
Back injuries. Cancer survivor. A return to life through community.
“HOPE broke down the mental and physical barriers I built. Now I compete, connect, and feel like myself again.”

• Kev & Cal - U.S. Army, E-5, 7 years of service
Despite losing his vision, Kevin regained confidence through the game.
“PGA HOPE focuses on what is possible. Golf gave me control, balance, and confidence again.”

These are not just stories.
They are proof.
Proof that PGA HOPE works.
Proof that community matters.
Proof that purpose can be rebuilt.
We are proud to have this team represent the Pacific Northwest.
Follow their journey.

04/29/2026

BVA members and their families gathered April 17–19 for an activity weekend filled with fun and laughs. Attendees were offered the option to participate in adaptive sports programs, hands-on activities, and various socializing events. Continue reading in last weeks BVA Happenings - https://conta.cc/3Qynb7y.

Left image shows Phyllis Bass receiving instruction on chosing her kayak. The right image shows Jaqueline Himes in her kayak entering the water.

04/17/2026

Our website might be experiencing growing pains, but that's not stopping us from sending out great editions of the BVA Happenings Weekly Newsletter - it just looks a little different right now. Check out the last two weeks for stories featuring what our membership has been up to.

April 10: https://conta.cc/41YMAJU
April 17: https://conta.cc/41Elmsa