The Waypoint Vets retreat to Zion National Park in Utah was truly a life-changing experience for us. We were honored to be the video production crew that documented the retreat organized by Sarah Lee, the founder of the non-profit organization that aims to help veterans heal through adventure. Her tagline "honor the fallen by living" is a powerful reminder aimed at veterans to continue living for the military brothers and sisters they’ve lost.
Throughout the week, we witnessed first-hand the positive impact that Waypoint Vets has on the lives of veterans. We were touched by the circle discussions that were conducted in group settings, and how the veterans opened up about their struggles with mental health.
The retreat was not just about circle discussions, though. The veterans were taken on adrenaline-pumping adventures like canyoneering, hiking, and rappelling. These activities served as a powerful reminder that there is a world of wonder and beauty outside of their traumatic experiences. We saw the veterans come alive in the midst of nature's majesty, and it was truly heartening to witness.
We were also struck by the sense of camaraderie and brotherhood/sisterhood that was present among the veterans. Despite having vastly different backgrounds and experiences, they bonded over shared challenges and a deep respect for their country and each other. We were honored to be included in their circle discussions and felt privileged to bear witness to their stories.
The retreat was not without its moments of emotion. We were moved to tears on several occasions as we reflected on the bravery and sacrifice of the veterans we met. We felt humbled and inspired by their resilience and dedication to their country and to each other.
Even after the retreat, the impact of Waypoint Vets continued to resonate with us. We have become close with some of the veterans we met and still keep in touch with them today. The experience left us with a renewed sense of gratitude for those who serve our country, and a deeper appreciation for the power of community and connection.
In conclusion, the Waypoint Vets retreat was an unforgettable experience that has left an indelible mark on our hearts. We are grateful to Sarah and the veterans for allowing us to be part of their journey, and we will always cherish the memories and lessons we learned during our time together.
We encourage everyone to check out Waypoint Vets and donate to this wonderful cause to help our veterans heal.
Learn more and donate at: Waypoint Vets