Stories

Tag: Army Trials

If I had to recover without the SRU it would be extremely difficult.
March 3, 2024 — Staff Sgt. Devin Fink, a resilient married father of two, shares his journey of survival as he competes for a spot on Team Army at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Orlando. Medically retiring due to injuries sustained during multiple deployments, including a significant traumatic brain injury (TBI) from an explosion during the Afghanistan withdrawal, Fink credits the Walter Reed Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) for his progress. Despite challenges such as cognitive deficits, impaired speech, vertigo, hearing loss, and a brain tumor, Fink remains determined, finding solace in volunteering with Cover Six Canines and embracing adaptive sports like air rifle shooting. Grateful for the camaraderie and support he finds through the SRU and adaptive sports, Fink sees the opportunity to compete on Team Army as a chance to continue serving and finding purpose despite his medical retirement... MORE

Staff Sgt. Devin Fink in front of helicopter

The advantage of recovering in the SRU
March 3, 2024 — Staff Sgt. Travis Beeghley, part of the Fort Belvoir Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU), shares insights gained from his own journey of injury and recovery. Having faced challenges navigating healthcare outside the military when he tore his ACL in 2016, Beeghley emphasizes the support and resources available within the SRU, underscoring its value for soldiers facing similar situations. Reflecting on his decision to utilize the SRU after a subsequent injury in 2022, Beeghley encourages others to consider this option early on, stressing the importance of seizing available assistance for both physical and mental health recovery. Engaging in adaptive sports activities at the SRU, Beeghley finds fulfillment in contributing to others' rehabilitation journeys while pursuing his own athletic goals. He urges fellow soldiers not to lose hope and to leverage the Army Recovery Care Program for comprehensive support, emphasizing that even amidst medical evaluations, opportunities for progress and assistance abound within the SRU setting... MORE

Staff Sgt Travis Beeghley at wheelchair rugby camp

The SRU takes you from can’t do to can do.
March 2, 2024 — Spc. Berenice Carmona, a member of the South Carolina National Guard, faced life-altering injuries during a deployment to Kuwait in 2021, but her resilience and determination have led her on a remarkable journey of recovery and adaptation. After sustaining injuries to her meniscus and ACL, Carmona found herself at the Fort Stewart Soldier Recovery Unit, where she embraced the support and resources available to her. Through therapy and adaptive reconditioning, Carmona discovered a passion for adaptive sports, finding renewed purpose and morale as she learned to navigate life differently... MORE

Spc. Bernice Carmona and her comrades in the gym

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 sitting on his motorcycle.

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.

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.

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.

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)