Stories

Return to duty amputee Soldier says, “Tell me I can’t do something."
February 26, 2024 — Staff Sgt. Adam Proctor, a combat medic who lost his leg in 2021, defied expectations by returning to duty and excelling in adaptive sports competitions. Initially reluctant to face the reality of his situation, Proctor embraced the challenge, determined not to let anything or anyone deter him from his military career. Despite facing a rigorous recovery process at the Fort Campbell Soldier Recovery Unit, Proctor's perseverance paid off when he was selected to compete for Team Army at the Warrior Games Challenge, ultimately winning six medals. His resilience not only inspired his fellow soldiers but also served as a powerful example to his five sons, instilling in them the belief that anything is possible... MORE

Staff Sgt Adam Proctor with his wife and five sons.

Going to the SRU means you get specialized care to repair what’s broken
February 21, 2024 — CW3 Kirk Holden, a Criminal Investigation Division Specialist and Army Reservist for 24 years, endured numerous injuries throughout his service, including shoulder, neck, and back injuries. Despite the pain, Holden adhered to the military ethos of pushing through discomfort until a doctor at Ft. Bliss advised him to seek treatment at a Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU). Relocating to Joint Base Lewis McChord's SRU in February 2023, Holden now recognizes the importance of addressing injuries promptly. He emphasizes the value of the Army Recovery Care Program, advocating for Soldiers to seek specialized care rather than ignoring injuries. Currently on the path to medical retirement, Holden is optimistic about his recovery at the SRU and is exploring adaptive sports opportunities, such as wheelchair rugby, with aspirations to participate in the upcoming 2024 Army Trials. He acknowledges the transformative impact of adaptive reconditioning programs, highlighting his newfound skills and strength, and looks forward to potentially representing Team Army in adaptive sports competitions... MORE

CW3 Kirk Holden is taking morning laps on day one of wheelchair rugby camp.

I would not have been able to take the time to take care of myself had it not been for the SRU
February 8, 2024 — 1st Lt. Matthew Hovey, a Field Artillery Officer, faced a challenging deployment after sustaining a neck injury in 2022 while working with NATO Forces in the Middle East. Despite the injury, he remained committed to his unit, managing his pain through self-care measures during the deployment. Upon returning, Hovey transitioned to the Fort Belvoir Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) to address his injuries, recognizing the importance of prioritizing his health over returning to his previous career in construction. Through surgeries and rehabilitation, he learned to focus on his own recovery, embracing adaptive sports as part of his healing journey. Inspired by the prospect of competing in adaptive sports competitions like the Warrior Games, Hovey now aims to make Team Army, highlighting the transformative impact of the SRU's resources and counseling support. He encourages fellow Soldiers to explore the opportunities available at the SRU, emphasizing the importance of taking advantage of resources and trying new activities to aid in their recovery journey... MORE

1st Lt. Matthew Hovey after cervical fusion surgery #3 at Walter Reed.

Soldier says hits in rugby and life won’t stop her
February 8, 2024 — Soldiers from various Soldier Recovery Units (SRUs) recently gathered at Fort Belvoir to participate in a wheelchair rugby camp, an intense physical sport that serves as a crucial component of recovery for individuals like Spc. Brooke Jader from Fort Riley SRU. Despite initial health concerns stemming from a deployment to Cuba in 2022, which led her to the SRU due to Bilateral Vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Jader found solace and progress through adaptive sports. Learning to navigate the challenges of wheelchair rugby not only bolstered her physical resilience but also fostered teamwork and confidence, as demonstrated on social media platforms. Grateful for the support and activities provided by the SRU, Jader remains determined in her recovery journey, with aspirations to pursue further studies in the medical field post-Army, alongside competing in the upcoming Army Trials at Fort Liberty. She credits her time at the SRU for shaping her path toward recovery and acknowledges the valuable opportunities it has afforded her... MORE

Spc. Brooke Jader "meets the hit" during wheelchair rugby camp at Ft. Belvoir.

The Army Recovery Care Program is like a one-stop shop for getting well
February 8, 2024 — Sgt First Class Saul Sierra, a veteran of 29 years in the Army, faced a significant shoulder injury in April 2022, leading him to the Fort Campbell Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) for treatment. Through adaptive reconditioning programs, particularly wheelchair rugby, Sierra found newfound motivation and support, inspired by his fiancé's success on Team Army at the Warrior Games. Embracing the resources provided by the Army Recovery Care Program, Sierra is not only focusing on his physical recovery but also preparing for his post-Army career, including federal resume building and management courses. With aspirations to join Team Army at the upcoming Army Trials in March 2024, Sierra emphasizes the importance of utilizing the SRU's services, encouraging younger Soldiers to embrace the care and opportunities available for their recovery and future endeavors... MORE

Sgt. 1st Class Saull Sierra during a warm-up at the 2024 Wheelchair Rigby Camp at Fort Belvoir.

The SRU sets Soldiers up for success whether they return to duty or retire.
February 2, 2024 — After sustaining an injury during a deployment in 2022, Sgt. Christopher Mulligan found himself facing uncertainty about his future as a Soldier. However, his experience at the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, proved to be a turning point. With personalized support and guidance from his Transition Coordinator, James Coleman, Mulligan not only recovered from his injury but also found a new career path in the intelligence community. The SRU's comprehensive assistance, from medical care to career planning, enabled Mulligan to transition smoothly into civilian life, with plans to complete his education and embrace new opportunities. His journey highlights the vital role of support systems like the SRU in helping military personnel navigate life-changing transitions with confidence and optimism... MORE

Sgt Mulligan before his back surgery in July 2022.

Building confidence through adaptive sports
January 29, 2024 — Soldiers in the Army Recovery Care Program find confidence and teamwork through adaptive sports, as highlighted by Col. Roy Walker, emphasizing their therapeutic value for mental and physical well-being. Visiting a wheelchair rugby camp, Walker witnessed firsthand how sports training boosts soldiers' confidence, aiding in their total recovery journey. CW3 Kirk Holden, a participant, shares his positive experience, echoing the sentiment of enjoying the camp while learning and bonding with fellow soldiers. With confidence and hard work, these soldiers aim to excel at the upcoming Army Trials, demonstrating their fearlessness in facing challenges... MORE

Col. Roy Walker visits Soldiers at the 2024 Wheelchair Rugby Camp at Ft. Belvoir.

One Moment in Time
January 23, 2024 — Brandi Evans, a retired Army sergeant and medic, exemplifies the power of kindness and selflessness in the world of adaptive sports. Despite her own competitive drive and success, Evans made a pivotal decision at the 2018 Invictus Games in Sydney, Australia, to support a fellow athlete from the UK, Naomi Adie, in securing a bronze medal, a moment now etched in Invictus history. Evans's journey from injury to mentorship at the Fort Bliss Soldier Recovery Unit underscores the transformative impact of adaptive reconditioning and competitive sports on recovery and resilience. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and determination for soldiers facing adversity, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and community support in overcoming challenges... MORE

Retired Army Sgt. Brandi Evans (right) and Royal Air Force Corporal Naomi "Nomes" Adie show their bond as Aide crosses the finish line to win the bronze after the 1500-meter wheelchair race in Sydney at the 2018 Invictus Games.

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