Stories

It's so rewarding to pass hope on.
January 17, 2024 — Lt. Col. Tim Doherty, a former Army Reservist, overcame injuries and PTSD after a deployment to Afghanistan by discovering the therapeutic benefits of beekeeping. Leaving the Soldier Recovery Unit, he delved into beekeeping, eventually starting Doc’s Healing Hives program, which aids over 100 Soldiers at no cost. Doherty plans to retire from the Army Reserve and his job as an assistant school principal to focus on expanding the program with a USDA grant, aiming to help even more veterans find solace and purpose through beekeeping and nature therapy... MORE

Veterans are amazed as they see the fruits of their labor at Docs Healing Hives in North Georgia.

You have to keep pedaling to finish the race.
January 17, 2024 — Michael Stephens, a visually impaired athlete and two-time Warrior Games competitor for Team Army, has found incredible success in Para Cycling, setting a new world record at the Para Pan Games in Chile. Despite sustaining severe injuries during combat operations in Afghanistan, including spinal injuries and multiple TBIs, Stephens discovered adaptive sports as a means of recovery. His journey from initial skepticism to becoming a world-class cyclist exemplifies resilience and determination. Despite facing challenges such as multiple sclerosis and deteriorating vision, Stephens remains focused on his goals, aiming for the Paris Paralympics. His story is not just about personal triumph but also about giving back and mentoring others on their journey to excellence in sports... MORE

The dynamic duo of Joe Christiansen and Michael Stephens racing for gold at the Parapan Games in Chile last November.

I'm a buck-35 and 5 foot 9 - I can adapt to anything!
January 17, 2024 — Sgt. Alexander Robison's journey from a near-fatal encounter with a suicide bomber to finding solace and strength through wheelchair rugby is an inspiring tale of resilience and community support. After sustaining severe injuries during a deployment, Robison's remarkable recovery at Walter Reed led him to discover adaptive sports, particularly wheelchair rugby, which became a crucial part of his healing process. Despite ongoing struggles with PTSD and physical limitations, Robison's determination shines as he sets his sights on competing for Team Army at the 2024 Army Trials. With unwavering support from the Soldier Recovery Unit and his family, Robison is not only reclaiming his life but also aspiring to help others navigate their own paths to recovery... MORE

Maj Gen Matthew McFarlane pinned Robison’s Purple Heart and Combat Action badge on him in the ICU in Baghdad.

I’ve been able to take my disability and help others.
January 12, 2024 — Retired Army 1st Lt. Christopher Parks recounts his life-altering experience after contracting a flesh-eating bacteria, leading to the loss of his leg. Despite the initial shock and challenges, Parks found solace and purpose in adaptive sports, particularly wheelchair basketball, which became his passion. He went on to compete internationally in various adaptive sports events, finding camaraderie and empowerment. Today, Parks and his wife are dedicated to helping others facing similar disabilities, exemplifying resilience and the power of community support. Through his journey, Parks emphasizes the importance of accepting change, seeking help, and never giving up, offering hope and inspiration to others navigating similar paths... MORE

Retired Army 1st Lt. Chris Parks, with his sense of humor and dedication to improvement.

You can never be 100% for anybody else if you are not 100% yourself.
January 2, 2024 — Retired Army Staff Sgt Ross Alewine reflects on his journey through the Army Recovery Care Program (ARCP) after sustaining multiple injuries during deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Despite physical and emotional challenges, he found purpose and resilience through adaptive sports, ultimately becoming a champion in the Warrior and Invictus Games. Alewine emphasizes the importance of the ARCP beyond sports, highlighting its role in holistic recovery through various outlets like music, art, and yoga. He now shares his experiences with soldiers, advocating for self-care, adaptation, and embracing a new, better version of oneself post-injury. Alewine encourages soldiers to utilize the tools provided by the program and embrace daily challenges for personal growth and success... MORE

U.S. Army SSG Ross Alewine, right, is congratulated by Silver Medalist U.S. Air Force SrA Rafael Morfinenciso, center, and Bronze Medalist U.S. Army SSG Altermese Kendrick after Alewine won the Gold Medal as Ultimate Champion during the Closing Ceremony at the 2018 Department of Defense Warrior Games.

How the Army outfits wounded Soldiers for life after recovery.
January 2, 2024 — The Army Recovery Care Program (ARCP) emphasizes Adaptive Reconditioning, ensuring soldiers recovering from wounds, injuries, or illnesses have access to suitable equipment and opportunities for physical and therapeutic activities. Chris Uggiano, the Program Manager, highlights the importance of providing equipment for adaptive sports and diverse activities beyond traditional sports, facilitating holistic recovery and preparation for life after Soldier Recovery Units (SRUs). Education on equipment usage and safety is prioritized, aiming to empower soldiers and optimize their rehabilitation experience. With a focus on equipping soldiers for success beyond recovery, ARCP underscores the significance of personalized support and resources to foster resilience and improve overall well-being... MORE

Team Army Coach Chris Uggiano embraces U.S. Army Spc. Timothy Capps after finishing his race on June 6, 2023, during the Department of Defense Warrior Games Challenge. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Anthony Hopper)

I always knew I wanted to give back to this great country.
December 27, 2023 — It’s been quite a journey in the Army for Major Hai Pham, a Military Intelligence officer who will retire on Feb 24, 2024. “I enlisted at first. I have two MOSs. I enlisted as a cook. Back then, the motto was Be all you can be, and I just realized that as I retire, that motto is back. What a full circle moment.”... MORE

Photo By MaryTherese Griffin | (Official military photo Department of Defense) Major Hai Pham will retire in February after 28 years of service and start a new career as a sports agent in Southern California.

2023 AR Summit takeaway- “No Soldier goes through this alone.”
December 20, 2023 — Adaptive reconditioning (AR) planning is a year-round process within the Army Recovery Care Program. Ensuring wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers have the best possible care is paramount. At the 2023 AR Summit earlier this month at Fort Belvoir, everyone with a hand in a Soldier’s recovery came to watch, listen, and learn... MORE

Courtesy Photo | (Photo by MaryTherese Griffin) Dr Yvonne Larochelle, Physical Therapist for the Fort Stewart Soldier Recovery Unit, works on an athlete at the 2023 Army Trials.

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