Kim Kobayashi-Elliott, a recreational therapist in the Spinal Cord Injury Unit at the San Diego VA Medical Center, is a source of support and inspiration to countless veterans navigating life after their injuries.

Her commitment to helping veterans rediscover their potential through sports and physical activity is evident in her work with Juan “Johnny” Sandoval, a U.S. Navy veteran who sustained a spinal cord injury in 2001. Under her guidance, Sandoval was introduced to the National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic, an annual event in San Diego.

Sandoval attended the sports clinic for the first time last year. He credits the clinic and Kim’s support with changing his life for the better. “In my experience, it’s boosted my confidence. It’s improved my quality of life,” he said. “I get to interact with other veterans who have the same injuries. We’re a big family here and all these opportunities to find out what you can or can’t do make you a stronger and better person.”

This year, Kim will again support her veterans at the Summer Sports Clinic as they participate in activities that push them to their physical and mental limits. “Whatever they need, whether it’s a wheelchair transfer, help checking into their room, or moving their luggage from point A to point B, we’re there,” she says, emphasizing her dedication to her veterans. “We also encourage them at every event, biking, surfing, kayaking, sailing, and adaptive fitness. We go to every event and stay with our team and make sure they have the support they need to be successful.”

Kim’s belief in the transformative power of activity is at the core of her work. She knows that physical activity is critical to the mental and physical well-being of her veterans, and she works tirelessly to provide them with opportunities to thrive. “This is an absolutely phenomenal time to not only get out of your comfort zone, but to try something new,” she explains. “Most importantly, the camaraderie that comes from being with other veterans who have been through the same thing. Experiencing something together is really pretty amazing. The events themselves are incredible, but the real benefit is finding another battle buddy or someone you build a bond with that can last long beyond the clinic.”

With her commitment, Kim Kobayashi-Elliott not only helps veterans like Johnny adjust to life after their injury – she also gives them the strength to take control of their lives again and be successful.