The opportunity to find connection and healing came in an unsuspecting format for Upstate Pathfinder Manager, Tito Vazquez.

Upstate Warrior Solution's Zen Tubing event along the French Broad River in North Carolina allows Veterans, First Responders, and their family members a reprieve from the summer's heat surrounded by connection and a breath-taking scenic backdrop as plastic inner tubes calmly carry them down river.

Vazquez said the people, more than the river, made this experience unforgettable. 

Arriving on the banks of the French Broad River, Vazquez was surprised to be the only male in a group of female Veterans and First responders. 

"I realized I had been given a unique opportunity to listen and learn from this incredible group of women," Vazquez said. 

As the group winded their way down river, Vazquez heard the stories of military spouses, whose strengthen goes unnoticed too often; Army and Air Force retirees who had proudly worn the uniform; an FBI agent dedicated to protecting others; a gifted poet whose words proved her incredible power; and many more. Every single one offered each woman's unique story of service: sacrifice, resilience and hope.

Vazquez shared that conversation flowed between the group members as easily as they drifted along the river's current. 

"We talked about military life, raising families, careers, friendships and the invisible challenges that so many carry. We also spoke about friends who are currently battling illness, walking through difficult seasons or facing some of life's darkest moments. Those conversations reminded me that behind every smile is a story we may never fully know," Vazquez said. 

The group went around the circle and shared something they wanted to release into the world, something they were grateful for, or someone they wanted to uplift.

Vazquez recounted how moved he was by each person's show of strength through their vulnerability. One-by-one, they shared what they were thankful for, what was on their hearts, and offered prayers and well wishes for those facing difficult times.

"In a world that seems to move so fast it loses sight of what is important, we were able to take a minute to slow down and remember the people who matter most," Vazquez said. "That moment reminded me that healing doesn't always happen through grand gestures. This time of quiet conversations, prayer, laughter, and the willingness to be present for one another was transformative." 

It was clear to Vazquez that the women in this group had built strong bonds. They showed genuine care for one another. They celebrated each other's victories and carried one another through hardships.

By the end of the trip Vazquez said he no longer saw himself as "the only guy" in a group of women. He saw what they shared more than how gender divided them. 

"I simply felt like another member of a remarkable community that understands what it means to serve, sacrifice, and support one another," he said. 

This experience would not have been possible without Upstate Warrior Solution which continuously finds creative and meaningful ways to serve our Veteran and first responder community. A special 'thank you' to Family Services Program Manager, Virginia Barnes, and Executive and Administrative Assistant, Vera Petronis, whose leadership, vision and genuine care created an atmosphere where everyone felt welcomed and connected.

To learn more about this program and other services and events developed by Upstate Warrior Solution you can visit upstatewarriorsolution.org. To find other Veteran-specific events, visit our calendar page at scdva.sc.gov.