Twin recreation therapists promote wellness and recovery

Kyler Fluitt is a recreation therapist with North Texas VA. Skyler Fluitt is also a recreation therapist for North Texas VA. As VA professionals, the twins have dedicated their lives to helping others overcome physical and mental challenges.

No strangers themselves to overcoming disabilities, Kyler and Skyler were born with cerebral palsy.

“Our parents weren’t going to let our condition define us. They made us work hard and we grew up with a desire to serve others,” Kyler said.

Promoting rehabilitation and wellness

For the past two years, Kyler has shared his skills in the mental health department at the Fort Worth outpatient clinic. Utilizing a wide range of therapeutic activities to restore the bio-psycho-social functional capabilities of Veterans with injuries, chronic illnesses and other disabling conditions, recreation therapists promote rehabilitation and wellness and provide a continuum of care.

Qualified clinicians like Kyler and Skyler enhance physical, cognitive, emotional, social and leisure development that support each Veteran’s chosen life pursuits.

Typical group activities with Kyler’s Veterans range from ceramics and wood carving to outdoor excursions, like fishing.

“Most times it doesn’t even feel like work because we do so many fun activities,” Kyler said.

Helping rebuild lives

Skyler Fluitt works with VA’s homeless program in therapeutic recreation and has been with VA for over 11 years, eight of those years with the specialty spinal cord injury department. He spends his days helping Veterans recover from addictions, helping them rebuild their lives via secure housing, employment opportunities and emotional support.

“I used to feel sorry for myself, thinking my disability meant the end of doing the things I loved,” said James Jones, a Veteran in North Texas VA’ therapeutic program. ”But then I met Skyler. He wouldn’t let me make excuses.”

Skyler brings hope and spirit to those Veterans seeking independence and a better quality of life: “I help Veterans rebuild their lives and I know what I do is critical for those trying to become more independent.”

Lifelong perseverance

Both Kyler and Skyler understand what it means to persevere. Their personal experiences over a lifetime of overcoming physical and mental challenges provide a unique connection to the Veterans they serve. Their roles allow them to give back in a meaningful way, honoring both their journey and the legacy of their family.

“We’ve always had a great deal of respect for Veterans. Both our grandfathers served in the military and that connection makes us do whatever it takes to see our patients succeed and flourish in their lives,” Kyler added.