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Blinded in Iraq, skiing in Vail

Mar- 2-2006 » Filed Under: 1/25 SBCT

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By Edward Stoner, Vail Daily

VAIL - Scott Smiley has learned many things over again since April 10, when a suicide blast in Iraq sent shrapnel into his brain and left him blind.

He has learned to walk again. He has learned to read again. He's learned to use a computer again, and how to wash dishes.

This week, he's skiing again.

Smiley, a 25-year-old first lieutenant, is skiing with Vail-based Foresight Ski Guides, which provides guides who help him down the mountain. Smiley and his wife, Tiffany, will ski five days before they go home to Fort Lewis, Wash. on Saturday.

"At first it was very scary, but then it's exhilarating and fun," he said.

On Thursday morning, Smiley took three runs down Northwoods, an intermediate run, at times moving surprisingly fast. He didn't fall once. [...]


Comments For "Blinded in Iraq, skiing in Vail":

I am a fellow A Co. soldier and I think it is great that Lt. Smiley is getting back to the things he enjoys doing.

Posted by: 1st BDE soldier [TypeKey Profile Page] | March 4, 2006 1:00 PM

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