Stories

Tag: Army Medical Command

Adaptive sports have molded our family.
March 29, 2024 — As Adaptive Sports Month kicks off in April, retired Army Staff Sgt Joel Rodriguez and his wife Liannie share their transformative journey with adaptive sports following Joel's life-changing accident in 2014, leaving him paralyzed. From initially resisting the idea to becoming deeply involved as a player, coach, and mechanic, adaptive sports became the cornerstone of their lives, providing purpose, community, and a family affair spanning across generations. Their story highlights the profound impact of adaptive sports beyond competition, emphasizing its role in fostering resilience, discipline, and a supportive community for individuals navigating life's challenges. Joel advocates for anyone facing life-altering circumstances to explore adaptive sports, underscoring the invaluable camaraderie and sense of belonging they offer... MORE

Wheelchair mechanic Liannie Rodriguez is out on the floor fixing a wheelchair during Team Army’s wheelchair rugby practice at the 2022 Warrior Games in Orlando.

Injured Army Reservist excited about his recovery and the road ahead.
March 29, 2024 — Sgt. Wang Geun Lee, an Army Reservist and college student, had his plans for the future disrupted when he tore his ACL during training in Kuwait. However, his recovery journey at the Fort Belvoir Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) proved transformative. Supported by the Army Recovery Care Program, Lee received comprehensive assistance, including medical treatment, administrative support, and access to unique therapies like horse therapy. Grateful for the SRU's accommodations, which allowed him to continue his education while recovering, Lee emphasizes the program's role in facilitating his transition back to civilian life. He highlights the supportive environment and camaraderie among fellow Soldiers as instrumental in his recovery and encourages others in similar situations to take advantage of the resources available... MORE

Sgt. Wang Geun Lee with fellow soldiers at baseball game

I don’t know how to spell can’t.
March 8, 2024 — Retired Army Specialist JP Lane, a combat engineer who lost both legs and suffered extensive injuries in Afghanistan 13 years ago, has become a beacon of resilience and inspiration through his remarkable journey of recovery and advocacy. Beginning his rehabilitation at the Fort Sam Houston Soldier Recovery Unit, Lane underwent numerous surgeries and, alongside his wife Crystal, embarked on a mission to share their story nationwide, offering hope to others facing similar challenges. Lane, also a talented musician and speaker, discovered a newfound passion for adaptive sports during the 2022 Warrior Games, igniting a desire to return to athletics despite his injuries. Now, at the 2024 Army Trials in Fort Liberty North Carolina, Lane is competing in various events with the goal of earning a spot on Team Army for the upcoming Department of Defense Warrior Games... MORE

Ret. Army Spc. JP Lane in the discus competition at the 2024 Army Trials.

Take advantage of the SRU, don’t be too big for it!
March 7, 2024 — Captain Nathan Degen, a Black Hawk helicopter pilot, recounts his journey of injury and recovery, culminating in his decision to join the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Fort Belvoir due to mobility limitations affecting his ability to fly. Despite initial reluctance, Degen emphasizes the invaluable support provided by the SRU, highlighting the comprehensive care and opportunities for rehabilitation, including adaptive sports. He encourages fellow soldiers to embrace the assistance offered by the SRU, stressing the importance of prioritizing self-care and recovery. Degen's involvement in adaptive sports and the support from the SRU have not only facilitated his physical rehabilitation but also provided him with career opportunities post-Army. With his family nearby, Degen finds solace in the SRU environment, enabling him to balance recovery with family life while preparing for a transition beyond the military... MORE

Capt. Nate Degen in shotput competition at the 2024 Army Trials

My attacker will not take anything away from me.
March 6, 2024 — Following the traumatic incident in July 2022, Master Sgt. Jasmin McKenzie found herself at the Fort Belvoir Soldier Recovery Unit, embarking on a path of physical and emotional healing. Despite the challenges she faced, McKenzie's unwavering support system, including her husband and military command, enabled her to navigate the difficult road to recovery with grace and determination. Through therapy, advocacy, and adaptive reconditioning, McKenzie found solace and strength, ultimately deciding to compete for Team Army as a symbol of her resilience and defiance against her attacker... MORE

The wheelchair rugby competition at the 2024 Army Trials had a sub on the court for a bit this evening. Lt. Gen. Mary Izaguirre, the 46th Surgeon General of the Army, came to show her support for the next Team Army. “It's wonderful to see some of the folks I recognize from previous years and some ne
March 6, 2024 — Lt. Gen. Mary Izaguirre, the 46th Surgeon General of the Army, attended the wheelchair rugby competition at the 2024 Army Trials to support Team Army. Expressing admiration for the athletes' energy and dedication, Izaguirre emphasized the transformative power of adaptive sports in soldiers' recovery journeys. She highlighted the significance of adaptive sports in restoring a sense of identity and camaraderie among wounded warriors, acknowledging the vital role families play in the recovery process. Izaguirre's involvement underscored the importance of adaptive sports not only in physical rehabilitation but also in fostering a supportive community for soldiers and their loved ones. She expressed confidence in Team Army's performance at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games and praised the holistic approach of adaptive sports in promoting healing and resilience... MORE

Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Mary Izaguirre chats with Retired Army Staff Sgt. Lavone Kendrick at wheelchair rugby competition during the 2024 Army Trials

Retired Army Pilot has his “sites” set on Team Army
March 5, 2024 — Retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 Bruce McCormick, a veteran helicopter pilot with six deployments spanning 36 years in the Army, recounts his journey through injuries and rehabilitation, culminating in his participation in the Army Recovery Care Program and adaptive sports. Despite enduring ten surgeries for an ankle injury sustained in 2005, McCormick found hope through a successful transplant surgery in 2015 and rediscovered resilience through adaptive sports at the Fort Carson Soldier Recovery Unit. Now a dedicated father of five daughters, McCormick is aiming for a spot on Team Army at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Orlando, competing in various events such as air rifle shooting, swimming, cycling, rowing, and team sports. With his daughters eagerly supporting his endeavor, McCormick views the opportunity to compete as a chance to reclaim his identity and inspire his family, showcasing the transformative power of adaptive sports in rebuilding confidence and embracing new challenges... MORE

U.S. Army veteran Chief Warrant Officer 5 Richard (Bruce) McCormick stares down his target during the shooting event at the 2024 Army Trials

Adaptive sports take your mind off your problems.
March 4, 2024 — Staff Sgt. Abel Baez, a six-foot-five infantryman, has endured years of pain from a surgically repaired ACL and meniscus tear, leading him to discover adaptive sports as a tool for recovery at the Fort Stewart Soldier Recovery Unit. Despite facing medical retirement after 18 years of service, Baez found solace and purpose in adaptive sports, such as wheelchair basketball and sitting volleyball, which not only kept him physically engaged but also helped him mentally... MORE

Staff Sgt. Abel Baez in the shot put competition at the 2024 Army Trials

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