Gerofit veteran turns fallen wood into assistive art | va ann arbor health care | veterans affairs

Terry Bradburn has been a member of the Gerofit program for about 4 months, and in that short time, has become a well-known regular in the daily virtual exercise classes. Terry shared with

us why he enjoys the daily virtual Gerofit classes: “The GEROFIT Program has opened a new avenue of interest for me. The exercises have helped immensely with my balance and stamina and are

modified to our group's individual needs. Veterans are "Brothers in Arms" and the support felt from this group is remarkable. The social aspect is just so positive and

uplifting.” Terry himself is an uplifting presence in the classes, often inserting well-timed jokes to bring smiles to the faces of his fellow Veterans. In March 2023, Terry found a new way

to bring smiles to the faces of his fellow Gerofit comrades. As a carpenter for over 20 years, woodworking has always been a passion for Terry. Following several surgeries that left him

needing a little more assistance, Terry began translating his creativity and woodworking skills into the hobby of hand-carving canes. Terry himself best describes the artistic process of

making each came: “Every piece of wood inspires me with its shape, grain, and imperfections. By the time I have cleaned off the bark, I have a design in my head and no two items are ever

alike. Winters can get boring being stuck in the house, so carving the canes keeps me off the couch, busy and out of my wife's hair!" Members of the Gerofit exercise program, both

on-site and virtual, were able to pick out the canes for themselves on a first come, first serve basis, and were thrilled to be able to own a piece of art from one of their fellow Veterans.

Story authored by Katie Althuis, exercise physiologist at VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System