OTF Adventures Build Strong Connections

In the early morning of Saturday, August 9, 2024, 50-year-old Jason Tubbs and his two children, Marcus and Marianna, boarded an Operation TBI Freedom (OTF) van in Colorado Springs and headed up to the mountains of Eagle County for a weekend of rafting and camping.

“The purpose of the river rafting trip was to connect with nature and relax, but it was so much more than that,” Jason explains. “My kids had never participated in these types of outdoor activities, so it was fun to watch them enjoy nature. It was also great to bond with other people who have similar issues. This not only makes you realize you’re not alone, but it helps my kids see that other families have the same types of experiences.”

Involved with OTF for the past four years, Jason feels grateful to be part of the tight-knit community that provides support for veterans and active duty military personnel with traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

“While all TBIs are different, OTF has helped me understand my own personal traumas, adjust my attitudes toward life, and adapt accordingly. Being part of OTF has taught me how to cope with my brain injury. It’s baby steps, but I am moving in the right direction. I cannot imagine where I’d be today without the group.”

For Julian Quevedo, OTF’s river rafting trip meant that he and his two sons could spend time together in the mountains.

“I was able to bond with my kids, while also focus on myself,” he says. “Because I am not a social person, I end up dealing with my issues alone. But when you spend time with other people in a similar situation, you find yourself opening up and sharing your experiences with others who can understand and empathize. I also learn about how others with a TBI cope, which helps in my own healing.”

This is the exact goal of OTF’s numerous adventure trips, offered throughout the year.

“We want to offer relaxing and fun outings for veterans, service members and families,” says Ruby Espinoza, OTF’s Military Support Specialist. “The donor-supported events are intended to promote relaxation, connection and adventure. Outdoor activities allow participants to bond with each other, while also providing a space to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. We have many new participants, as well as people who return over and over again.”

Julian adds, “Being part of OTF’s adventure trips helps you see that you are not dealing with hardships alone. It makes you feel connected and gives you hope for a better future.”

OTF is a program of Craig Hospital and relies entirely on private donations. Click here for information on donating to OTF activities.