NEWS & STORIES
The Project Healing Waters Spotlight: Karen Uberti – Veteran
The PHW Spotlight is our way of shining a bright light on those members of our PHW family whose accomplishments and contributions inspire us all.
These individuals, and their stories, are an essential part of the healing journey happening for Veterans across the country. Project Healing Waters transcends fly fishing and these Spotlights are a glimpse into what is happening throughout our programs. We are honored to share these with you each week.
Karen Uberti – U.S. Navy Veteran
When Did You Serve?
1982-1984
Project Healing Waters Program:
Newington, CT
How Long Have You Been Participating with Project Healing Waters?
Five and a half years.
Why Did You Join Project Healing Waters?
Fishing was the first program that Karen explored after being housebound and unable to
work. It was the carrot needed to help her through rough times and motivate often-painful
treatments and medications. As she improved, she looked for more challenges, and fly fishing,
with its active participation and graceful dancelike movements fit the bill. She has since made her
own distinguished fly rod proudly mimicking the colors of a Damsel Fly.
What Is Your Favorite Activity With Project Healing Waters? Why?
Karen has always said she likes all aspects of the program. However, the daily outings are her
favorite. It is an opportunity for her to get that camaraderie with other vets that she was lacking
before joining PHW and it allows her to commune with nature which she enjoys so much.
However, Karen also loves and has become proficient at both fly tying and rod building.
What Do You Look Forward To With Project Healing Waters In The Upcoming Year? Why?
During the upcoming year, Karen has said she wants to continue to develop her talents in fly
fishing and all of the associated activities of the program in the group setting. The Newington program has 14
outings and 6+ tying sessions on the books for this year and she wants to attend as many as
possible. Just spending time with her buddies in the program has made a real difference in her
life. She has gone from quiet and shy when entering the program to being able to talk Navy
with the best of them.
The PHW Spotlight will publish each Friday morning on www.projecthealingwaters.org. Learn more about this inspiring series HERE