SNOWMASS VILLAGE, Colo. (AFNS) -- Sheila James threw her arms up in joy, flashing a smile that stretched from ear to ear as she celebrated a personal victory during the 25th National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic here March 29.

A motor vehicle rollover in 2009 turned the former senior airman's life upside-down, landing her in a wheelchair and leaving her unable to do some of the simplest things she once took for granted.

Encouraged by the staff at the Audie Murphy Veterans Affairs Medical Center in San Antonio, where she receives care, James decided to give this year's winter sports clinic a whirl.

The clinic, sponsored by the Veterans Affairs Department and Disabled American Veterans, introduces disabled veterans to a full range of winter sports activities to help them put their fears behind them and press their limits to accomplish what many thought they never could.