In the heart of South Texas, a remarkable story of resilience, camaraderie, and the power of the great outdoors unfolds. It all began with a simple drawing on a napkin, a deer sketched by TJ duPerier for his 8-year-old cousin Weston Jenkins. Little did they know that this humble gesture would ignite a lifelong passion for hunting and, eventually, lead to the creation of Disabled Outdoorsmen USA (DOUSA), a non-profit organization that empowers individuals with disabilities to embrace the joys of outdoor activities.
Despite the seven-year age gap that separates them, Jenkins and duPerier share an unbreakable bond forged through their love for hunting. While duPerier faces the challenges of muscular dystrophy, a progressive condition that has confined him to a wheelchair since the age of 13, he refuses to let it hinder his pursuit of the great outdoors. In fact, he considers his outdoor adventures to be his therapy, a means of finding solace and strength amid adversity.
Their shared passion and duPerier's indomitable spirit inspired Jenkins to establish DOUSA. This organization goes beyond the hunt; it's about friendship, camaraderie, and the simple joy of being in the wild. Jenkins believes that the healing power of nature is often overlooked in traditional medical prescriptions but remains a crucial component of holistic well-being.
To fund DOUSA, Jenkins took matters into his own hands, creating merchandise with the DOUSA logo and selling it out of his car, which has now expanded to online sales and retail stores. The organization's reach has extended to various outdoor activities, including kayaking, hiking, and fishing, making it accessible for all.
One of the key properties DOUSA utilizes is a 1,300-acre ranch in Maverick County, meticulously designed to be entirely accessible for disabled outdoorsmen. This inclusivity is evident in everything from the hunting blinds to the vehicles used for transportation, ensuring that all participants can enjoy a fulfilling outdoor experience.
Through DOUSA, Jenkins and duPerier have not only impacted the lives of individuals with disabilities but have also introduced newcomers to the joys of outdoor sports. Their mission goes beyond the pursuit of game; it's about connecting with nature and finding solace in the great outdoors.
The stories of DOUSA participants, like Utah native Sydney Smith and South Carolina native Mike Edmonds, illustrate the transformative power of this organization. Smith found inspiration to overcome his physical limitations during a bow hunt, while Edmonds, despite being blind, fulfilled a lifelong dream of hunting in Texas.
The compassion and dedication of Jenkins and duPerier shine through their mission, driven by personal experiences and a desire to share the healing and transformative power of the outdoors with others. The story of DOUSA is a testament to their unwavering commitment to help people with disabilities lead fulfilling and adventurous lives, proving that disability does not define one's ability.
