Stories

Tag: DHA

“Adaptive Sports made a difference for me” ~ PFC Michael Romulus
December 4, 2024 — Private First-Class Michael Romulus' military dreams were cut short after a severe accident during basic training left him paralyzed. Determined to recover, he focused on relearning basic skills with the help of the Army Recovery Care Program at Fort Moore Soldier Recovery Unit. Surrounded by mentors and peers, he discovered adaptive sports, excelling in archery, seated shot put, and seated discus, even winning gold medals at the 2024 Endeavor Games. His experiences inspired him to pursue bioengineering at Morehouse College to develop spinal cord technology, driven by his own journey and desire to help others with similar injuries... MORE

PFC Michael Romulus gets strapped in to throw discus during an adaptive sports camp.

Helping those who help our Soldiers
December 4, 2024 — At an Army Recovery Care Program summit at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, occupational and physical therapists, clinical and social workers, doctors, and others from the fourteen Soldier Recovery Units shared information on ways to help. Joy Davis, an occupational therapist at the Fort Liberty SRU, stressed the value of coming together at events like this. “It’s integral for us to do a great job for our program and unit. Coming here, we can gather as much information as possible to take back and share to improve things for our Soldiers.” Davis says the goal is to deliver a holistic, high-level experience to wounded, ill, or injured Soldiers. According to Fort Liberty SRU Physical Therapist Brett Clingerman, talking with peers and leadership and hearing from subject matter experts at events like this is invaluable. “The networking piece, for me, is the most important. Process improvement is key, and I like hearing what works at the other SRUs. Finding the most effective way to implement things like what we do in adaptive reconditioning to Army Trials and even Warrior Games is important. We learn from each other to make our SRU the best it can be, helping Soldiers to get out there and find purpose again and something that motivates them to move again.” There are a lot of moving parts to help a Soldier move again. Attendees from throughout ARCP were able to share best practices at the summit. “As a PT, I am trying to get people moving. I want to get Soldiers to use their bodies again in situations where they’ve been in pain, and they don’t want to do that. An anecdote I share with Soldiers all the time is if you wait until you're ready to move or feel like moving, you’re probably not going to do it. It’s about taking that first step.” That first step isn’t just a physical one. The summit's holistic approach included a day of Struggle Well training. “Discussions here about Struggle Well Training is so important to what we do as PTs and OTs because it also helps the Soldier take that first step,” said Clingerman. Davis loves her role from the physical to the mental and spiritual healing processes because it encompasses them all. “I get to dive into the adaptive reconditioning side where I make relationships with the Soldiers to find out what’s going on with them and how we can better help. The other side, for me, involves assisting them with career and education opportunities. We are constantly working to find ways to help.” Davis and Clingerman shared that they can help tailor the program to the Soldier's needs. “Our activities allow us to get to know our Soldiers better, which means we get to help them even more. We hear stories all the time about how the AR Team has saved their lives.” When Soldiers move on from the SRU, Clingerman says it's bittersweet, but they are excited for them to progress to the next chapter of their lives. “We love making a lasting impact on them beyond the SRU, plus they know we care about them as people.” There is a sense of pride in a Soldier overcoming their situation and coming out on the other side. They carry that pride by joining forces with the friends who helped them. “We have Soldiers who return to the SRU and want to mentor the newer Soldiers by volunteering with adaptive reconditioning events. To me, that speaks to how valuable this program is.” The Army Recovery Care Program summit at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, demonstrated the collective effort of occupational and physical therapists, clinical and social workers, doctors, and others from fourteen Soldier Recovery Units (SRUs) to improve care for wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers. Joy Davis, an occupational therapist, and Brett Clingerman, a physical therapist from Fort Liberty SRU, highlighted the importance of networking, process improvement, and sharing best practices to deliver a holistic, high-level experience. The summit's holistic approach included Struggle Well training, emphasizing the mental and spiritual aspects of recovery alongside the physical. The program's activities aim to tailor care to each Soldier's needs, fostering relationships and assisting with career and education opportunities, ultimately helping Soldiers find purpose and motivation to move forward. Returning Soldiers often volunteer to mentor newer ones, showcasing the program's enduring impact... MORE

Physical Therapist Brett Clingerman and his colleague Occupational Therapist Joy Davis reviewed notes from the 2024 OT/PT and Post Traumatic Growth Summit at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, on December 4, 2024.

The Strength of a Military Family
November 26, 2024 — summarize Every November since 1996, Military Family Month recognizes military families' service and sacrifices. This year, we honor the Calantoc Family, who’ve had more than their share of sacrifices due to unfortunate circumstances. Retired Army Staff Sgt Gene and Miho Calantoc married in 2009, embarked on a military career journey for Gene, and welcomed three children during their multiple military moves. “I was very clueless initially when he said he would join the military. You can’t imagine what happens in a military family’s life. I had to be up to the task,“ said Miho Calantoc. Originally from San Diego, the Calantocs moved four times in ten years. “It’s definitely something most people won't experience. One month after we had our first daughter, my husband got orders to deploy for nine months to Afghanistan. We just moved to Kentucky, our first duty station, so we had no family, no friends, and I was a newbie in this military world.” She says she made new friends by “networking” the network. “ Before we got into the military, I didn’t have a lot of friends. Reaching out to people was a new thing for me. It was hard to do because I didn’t want to burden anybody. The military taught me it's okay to ask for help, and networking is vital.” She did this by engaging with Fort Campbell’s Family Resource Group, which she says was instrumental in building her confidence to seek help and build lifelong friendships. Many people hear that story when military families or military moves are discussed. What happened on their third assignment to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, changed their lives forever. “Our life changed 180 degrees. Our goal was twenty years in the Army. I just had our third child when we were in Missouri, and he was only 8 months old when Gene had his accident,” said Miho. Gene had a terrible motorcycle accident while riding with friends in March 2020, the beginning of the Coronavirus outbreak in the U.S. At a hospital two hours away, a nurse called Miho and explained Gene would need his leg amputated and said they would update her by phone with information after his surgery. “ We turned the car around and went home; we weren’t allowed in the hospital,” said Miho. Staff Sergeant Calantoc admires his bride, who moved heaven and earth to reunite her family. “I am very proud of Miho. She has been so supportive, even though this is not what she signed up for, and wasn’t prepared for this outcome. She is truly amazing.” Because of COVID restrictions, it would be more than two months before the family would reunite. It was a busy two months for Miho and the kids. “We didn’t see Gene until he got to his next assignment, the Soldier Recovery Unit in San Antonio. That was in May. We also had to move out of our home within two months, and I had to clear Gene from all his work stuff before we headed to San Antonio. So, I had to do everything by myself with the kids,” said Miho. Mica Calantoc is old enough to remember when her dad had two legs. She says life is normal now, but it was a lot of newness initially. The abrupt move to another state, a new school, and the new way to navigate the house. “It's different because my dad needs a little help. It is weird, though, at night because he takes his leg off to go to bed,” said the 12-year-old with a giggle. The Calantocs have quite the military journey as a family to share, enduring more than their share, but they are proud, according to Miho, to have served for ten years. “It’s not easy, and the struggle is real. People automatically think of the stability you get in the military — housing, paycheck, medical. They don’t understand the struggle of not having a spouse who is in training or deployed. Add to that if you then become a caregiver and how much work it is to care for someone with a disability and keep the whole house running, likely living somewhere away from family.” Staff Sgt. Calantoc medically retired in 2021 and turned to adaptive sports as a way to recover. He made Team Army and competed at this year’s Warrior Games. It most definitely became a family affair. “I like to see how much my Dad can do in those sports. He’s fast because he practices a lot. I'm really proud of him, and I like to see him in wheelchair rugby,” said Mica. “He plays with the kids in his wheelchair. We are learning to adapt and are comfortably placed into our new normal as a military family,” Miho shared. She is particularly proud of their children and how they’ve embraced this unplanned journey. “After seeing Daddy with a disability, I’ve noticed our kids are more compassionate and embracing of others with a disability. They are very considerate and helpful .” Recognizing his family's sacrifices and strength, Calantoc is thankful his wife fits into military life perfectly and handles everything like a champ. “She means everything to me. She’s always loving and caring. When I am sad or depressed, she is there to lift me up. Our family is a blessing, and I know the Lord knows what is coming for me in the future. I’m ready.” Military Family Month, celebrated every November since 1996, recognizes the service and sacrifices of military families. This year, it honors the Calantoc Family. Retired Army Staff Sgt Gene and Miho Calantoc have navigated multiple relocations, deployments, and a life-changing motorcycle accident in 2020 that led to Gene's leg amputation. Despite challenges, Miho has been a steadfast support, handling the care of their three children and adapting to new circumstances. Gene’s involvement in adaptive sports and participation in the Warrior Games highlight their resilience. Their story underscores the importance of support systems, like Fort Campbell’s Family Resource Group, and the strength found within military families... MORE

The Calantoc Family after the powerlifting competition at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

A caregiver's work is never done
November 26, 2024 — November is Warrior Care Month. No one truly knows the life of a caregiver until they end up in that position themselves. “This is my full-time job now because of Jack’s stroke. I had to quit my job to be a full-time caregiver. I am the caregiver-in-chief now,” chuckles Gloriah Peko, who is celebrating 9 years of marriage with her Soldier husband, Sgt. 1st Class Jack Peko. He suffered a stroke due to a brain tumor on November 3, 2022. The Peko household was turned upside down, and the caregiver-in-chief had to ease their four children into their new normal. Eight-year-old Jayden is the oldest and has the most memories of his Dad before the stroke. He admits it’s been an adjustment: “I was feeling a little frustrated because Daddy was different. We have to work hard every day to communicate. He gets to come see me play soccer, and he is a big cheerleader—I hear him cheering for me.” Jack Peko is in a wheelchair and has mobility issues along with impaired speech. Gloriah says there is always the Jack factor when she or the family does anything. “When I want to go somewhere, I have to find someone to help care for him. If I have to run to the store, for example, Jack has to go with me, or someone has to be here.” Gloriah and Jack are thankful her parents live nearby. “They’ve been a huge help with our kids. My Mom’s been dropping them off and picking them up from school. She is such a big help.” Being a caregiver in the Peko house is magnified to the 10th power for Gloriah with kids aged 2, 4, 7, and 8, plus keeping up with her husband’s schedule. In a slow and eager voice, SFC Peko shares their hectic day. “Every day, Gloriah will help me do my stretches, walking just to warm up my legs and working my arms. I have occupational and physical therapy, which I go to as well. Our days are full. If I have a doctor's appointment, it throws a wrench in my routine.” Gloriah explains how military spouses tend to stay focused on the original plan. When faced with this challenge, she is beyond thankful for the Fort Riley Soldier Recovery Unit and how they’ve been a constant source of support. “We feel so much better now. Two years ago, when the stroke happened, we had no idea what was going to happen next. We didn’t have an alternative plan because THE plan was for us to serve 20 years. Well, that isn’t happening. Our time at the SRU with everyone has been such a Godsend. We are grateful for what they have done for Jack and what they are doing for us beyond the Army.” Gloriah feels compelled to ask other military spouses if they have a disaster plan. “What’s your disaster plan? It’s a shock when you don’t have one, and something happens,” she says thoughtfully, wanting other military spouses to think about that. Sgt. 1st Class Peko talks about how their plan derailed everything.” It’s a big adjustment. I didn’t think about school or anything after the Army because I wanted a twenty-year career. I constantly think about it now because I have to support my family.” Peko’s Transition Coordinator at the Fort Riley SRU, Lisa Smith, works hard to ensure Soldiers are ready for work. In Peko’s case, she researched all the courses he could take to help him find a career after the Army. “I’m going to work in IT. She has me taking courses on the computer at home. I have so many options to look into,” said SFC Peko excitedly. Adaptive sports have played an enormous part in his recovery as well. Peko was on Team Army and competed at this year's Warrior Games in Orlando, Florida, where he brought home four silver medals. It’s now a part of his life, he says. “I try to squeeze adaptive sports into my days when I don’t have an appointment. The SRU is great about having me come in and work for an hour with archery. My goal is to continue in adaptive sports, and I definitely want to try out for Team Army again.” According to Gloriah, the hard work of being a caregiver can be slow and frustrating at first. She encourages patience and ‘me- time’ for any caregiver: “Be patient with the loved one you are taking care of. Be prepared and try to find time for yourself. You need that so you don’t go over the edge.” As he completes his medical board process, Sgt. 1st Class Peko reflects on his journey and says the best-laid plans can change, but family makes all the difference. “I think the hardest part is I was so used to supporting my family, and now I watch them do everything- the table is turned. I love my family so much.”... MORE

The Pekos were honored on the field this season at a Kansas City Royals baseball game.

Become vulnerable, accept help, and get well
November 26, 2024 — Retired Army Capt. Alissa Sheiness, a former combat medic turned surgical registered nurse, faced a drastic turn in her career after complications from an emergency C-section led to multiple surgeries. Her recovery journey at the Army's Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) highlighted the significance of the Army Recovery Care Program. Initially skeptical, Sheiness found immense support and therapeutic programs that aided her physical and emotional healing. Her experiences have inspired her to advocate for Soldiers to embrace vulnerability and seek necessary help. Now medically retired, Sheiness is pursuing a Nurse Practitioner degree and aspires to give back to the military community by working with Soldiers and veterans, emphasizing the importance of self-care... MORE

Then Sgt. Alissa Sheiness, May 2016 Fort Bliss, TX.

The Soldier Recovery Unit worked with me and my family
November 19, 2024 — Maj. Kayla Lytle of the Pennsylvania National Guard, recovering from a torn labrum and bicep injury sustained during a mission, found invaluable support at the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Fort Belvoir. Despite challenges like family separation and her mother-in-law's cancer diagnosis, the SRU leadership provided her with flexibility, including frequent passes to be home. When facing a long wait for surgery, SRU leaders advocated for her to receive treatment at a civilian hospital near her family. Post-surgery in February 2024, Lytle has been diligently working on recovery, while also planning for her future with the help of her Transition Coordinator, Mr. Coleman. She has enrolled in a certified clinical medical assistant program and is pursuing a phlebotomy certification, supported by financial aid opportunities she discovered through the SRU. Lytle credits the SRU for facilitating her medical care, recovery, and career readiness, and reflects positively on her decision to join the program despite initial hesitations. Activities like art therapy and yoga at the SRU helped her achieve a successful recovery, enabling her to transition confidently back to Guard duty and civilian life... MORE

Women are carving out their roles and importance in the military
November 19, 2024 — Dr. Krystal Morris, a retired Army Major and physical therapist, reflects on her 20-year military career, inspired by her Army nurse mother and a practical push from her parents to explore the Army Physical Therapy program. Initially planning to serve just four years, she found fulfillment working with Soldiers in adaptive reconditioning, particularly adaptive sports, which she sees as transformative for recovery and lifelong connections. Now a civilian with the Army Recovery Care Program (ARCP), Morris contributes to policy development, event coordination, and supporting physical therapy initiatives, continuing her passion for helping Soldiers. Proud of her journey, she encourages others, especially women, to consider military service as a way to grow, connect, and make a difference... MORE

Brigadier General Deydre Teyhen, Maj. Krystal Morris, KeithAnn Halle, Maj Casey Turner, and Dr. Yvonne LaRochelle

A Soldier, horses, and the SRU
October 16, 2024 — Army Master Sgt. Corey Seeton, who suffered severe knee and shoulder injuries during a 2023 deployment, found recovery and peace at the Fort Bliss Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) through working with horses. Engaging in equine-facilitated learning, Seeton discovered how building a bond with horses helped him decompress and focus on healing. He volunteers with the program three days a week, appreciating the unique relationship-building aspect of the therapy. Seeton encourages other Soldiers to explore the SRU's programs, emphasizing the benefits of camaraderie and personalized recovery. As he approaches retirement, Seeton reflects positively on his decision to embrace the SRU’s resources... MORE

Master Sgt Corey Seeton works with Willow, a ten-year-old quarter horse.

Recent Purple Heart recipient recovering at Fort Belvoir SRU
October 16, 2024 — Army Sgt. Jada Lassiter, who received the Purple Heart at Fort Belvoir’s Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU), is still processing the events leading to her award. She was injured in an explosion during an overseas deployment, resulting in a traumatic brain injury, kidney damage, and multiple broken bones. Airlifted to Landstuhl Hospital in Germany and then to the SRU, she is now focused on her recovery, engaging in therapeutic activities like cycling and art therapy. Though unsure if she will return to duty, Lassiter finds comfort and support at the SRU, bonding with fellow Soldiers and appreciating the resources available. She encourages others to fully embrace the SRU’s offerings and support networks during recovery... MORE

Sgt. Jada Lassiter with Major Carson at her Purple Heart ceremony

Soldier rebuilds herself in the most peaceful way.
October 16, 2024 — Sgt. 1st Class Porsha Gigliotti, stationed at the Hawaii Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) since September 2022, found peace and balance through the unit's gardening program. After fourteen years of active duty in a high-stress career, personal struggles led her to seek help at the SRU. Gigliotti, who is preparing for medical retirement, appreciates the SRU's focus on the Soldier’s mental and physical well-being. In addition to gardening, she engages in adaptive reconditioning events and career programs, helping her transition to civilian life. Married with 11 children, she is completing a master’s degree in business and executive leadership and plans to pursue a doctorate. Gigliotti encourages Soldiers to seek help at the SRU, recognizing its invaluable support in recovery... MORE

Sgt. 1st Class Porsha Gigliotti in the garden at the SRU in Hawaii.

Targeting Soldiers with archery
October 16, 2024 — Sgt. 1st Class David Ware, a medically retired infantryman and human intelligence collector, found recovery through adaptive sports after a 2013 motorcycle accident led him to the Fort Liberty Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU). Ware, who grew up practicing archery as a family hobby, rediscovered his passion for the sport and joined Team Army in 2022 as a competitive archer. Now an archery coach, Ware is committed to helping others find healing through the sport. He encourages Soldiers at the SRU to explore the many recovery programs available and to find their new purpose after injury. Recently ranked 23rd in the nation for archery, Ware continues to compete and coach Team Army in preparation for the Army Trials and Warrior Games. Alongside his wife, Emily, also an Army veteran, Ware volunteers with Veterans and first responders, sharing the calming and therapeutic benefits of archery with others... MORE

Coach David Ware is working with Soldiers at the range at Fort Liberty, North Carolina

“As a Reservist, I had a choice. I’m glad I came to the SRU” ~ Maj Ken LeBlanc
October 16, 2024 — Ken LeBlanc, an Army Reserve civil affairs officer and corporate medical executive, suffered a stroke during his last deployment to Poland. After receiving a stent in his carotid artery, he was transferred to the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) in San Antonio. Initially skeptical about staying at the SRU, LeBlanc is now grateful for the comprehensive care plan and rehabilitation services, including physical and occupational therapy and adaptive reconditioning programs. He highlights the value of mindfulness and personal development in his recovery and urges other soldiers to embrace SRU resources. Despite cognitive challenges, LeBlanc is optimistic about his recovery and medical board process, aiming to complete his 20 years of service. He credits his recovery to the encouragement and support from the SRU team... MORE

Maj. Ken LeBlanc particpating in drum therapy.

Soldier thankful for how breast cancer changed the way she values life.
October 15, 2024 — Sgt. Kristen Shepherd, a 30-year-old human resources specialist, is recovering from breast cancer at the Fort Stewart Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) after her diagnosis in June 2023. Despite no family history or genetic predisposition, Shepherd underwent surgeries and is now focused on healing and caring for her nephew. She praises the comprehensive support of the SRU, describing the staff as a "family away from home," helping her through treatment, including adaptive reconditioning and emotional support. Shepherd plans to pursue a master’s degree or a new career with the help of her Transition Coordinator. Now an advocate for Breast Cancer Awareness and the Army Recovery Care Program, she encourages Soldiers in similar situations to embrace the SRU's resources and prioritize their recovery... MORE

Sgt. Kristen Shepherd pictured with family

Where one door closes, another one opens.
October 1, 2024 — Quintis Reese is a dedicated professional in both his civilian and military roles. As a Medical Lab Specialist in the Army Reserves, Reese served globally, facing challenges like his Achilles injury during a deployment to Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these obstacles, he completed his mission and pursued officer training. Following his medical retirement, Reese found new direction with the help of the Army Recovery Care Program. This fall, he's set to continue his healthcare career as a quality assurance manager at Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawaii, embracing this new opportunity with his family's support... MORE

Sgt. Quintis Reese, with his daughters Nina, Saniah, Aria and his wife Ashley at the San Diego Safari Park.

After crash, pilot turns to JBLM Soldier Recovery Unit for help returning to duty.
September 18, 2024 — CW2 Ian Tambornino, a passionate Army helicopter pilot, experienced a life-altering event in February 2023 during a training exercise in Alaska when a horrific helicopter crash severely injured his arm. Despite extensive damage to his ulna nerve, flexor tendon, and veins, he was saved by his crewmates and received medical treatment that reconstructed his arm. During his recovery, Tambornino was assigned to the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM), where he has focused on physical recovery and career readiness. Although the road to recovery has been challenging, involving adaptive reconditioning activities like yoga to regain motion, Tambornino remains determined to return to the cockpit. With the support of his Transition Coordinator and training opportunities at JBLM, he is working on maintaining his flight knowledge through ground school and simulations. Grateful for the SRU's resources, he emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself and taking recovery step by step, with his ultimate goal being to fly again... MORE

CW2 Ian Tambornino is ready to return to the cockpit and fly again.

At the SRU, the opportunities are there if you apply yourself.
September 18, 2024 — Recovery Care Coordinator Kenneth Tate, a medically retired Army veteran, has spent over a decade helping Soldiers at the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Fort Carson. After his own military career was cut short due to a medical condition, Tate experienced firsthand the challenges Soldiers face during recovery. Now, as an RCC, he ensures that Soldiers take full advantage of the many opportunities available at the SRU, such as internships, free schooling, and certifications, which help prepare them for returning to duty or transitioning to civilian life. Tate emphasizes the importance of applying oneself to these opportunities, sharing stories of success, including Soldiers who have secured high-paying jobs after leveraging IT certifications. His personal experience as a former SRU client makes him relatable and effective, encouraging Soldiers to engage with the programs available and take control of their future... MORE

“I don’t want to go to a job after the Army; I want a career.”
September 17, 2024 — Master Sgt Keith Brooks, a 23-year Army veteran, has faced significant challenges throughout his military career, including a severe knee injury sustained during his second deployment to Iraq. Despite enduring seven surgeries and 18 months of rehabilitation, Brooks transitioned from infantry to a CBRN specialist and continued his service. His journey saw him return to the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) twice, most recently in 2023, where he faced medical retirement. Brooks is now embracing the opportunities available to him, including job fairs, internships, and career development programs, as he prepares for life after the Army. He actively mentors younger soldiers, emphasizing the importance of taking advantage of transition resources. Through internships, educational programs, and certifications, Brooks is paving the way for a future career in federal contracting, determined to secure a successful post-military career for himself and his family... MORE

Master Sgt. Keith Brooks with Command Sgt. Major Harold Dunn

Retired Soldier helps others get out of their comfort zone.
September 9, 2024 — Lisa Smith, an Army Recovery Care Program Transition Coordinator at Fort Riley, excels at helping Soldiers transition to civilian life by building trust and sharing her own experiences as a twice-transitioned Soldier. With over 30 years in the Reserves and six years of mobilization, Smith uses her extensive background to guide Soldiers through their recovery and career planning. She has been instrumental in supporting Soldiers like Army Sgt. 1st Class Jack Peko, who suffered a stroke, by providing opportunities for career development and ensuring comprehensive support for their families. Smith’s dedication helps Soldiers navigate their futures beyond the Army... MORE

Retired Sgt 1st Class Lisa Smith is in her eighth year as a Transition Coordinator helping Soldiers at Fort Riley’s Soldier Recovery Unit

"Life isn’t happening to me; it's happening for me.”
September 9, 2024 — Spc. Dominique Washington’s Army career was unexpectedly cut short in August 2023 when she suffered a stroke at age 29. Despite having no prior health issues, she experienced two more strokes and a seizure in the following months. Her recovery journey began at the Fort Drum Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) in December 2023. Initially hesitant, Washington found the SRU’s support invaluable, helping her cope with the trauma of her strokes and the loss of her mother to a similar condition. The SRU provided her with the care and encouragement needed to navigate her new reality and focus on raising her daughter... MORE

“It is a blessing that I am here at an SRU.” ~ Staff Sgt. Julia Vickers
September 4, 2024 — Staff Sgt. Julia Vickers experienced a transformative year after being deployed to Camp Humphries, Korea, where she faced significant mental health challenges. Initially hesitant to join the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Fort Belvoir, believing it was only for combat-injured soldiers, she soon realized its value for her own recovery and transition. With eleven years of active duty, Vickers, who started as a lab technician before moving to human resources, found the SRU’s support crucial. The SRU allowed her to focus on her care and career transition, reigniting her passion for healthcare. She is now preparing for a new career in nursing, combining her medical and human resources experience... MORE

Staff Sgt Vickers with her mother, Crystal Banks, and her grandfather, Samuell Banks