Stories

Tag: Soldier Recovery Unit

Transition Coordinators help build a road map to a Soldier's Future
July 17, 2024 — Transition Coordinators (TCs) play a crucial role in assisting Soldiers medically retiring from the military, a task that requires empathy and adaptability. At the annual training event at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), TCs like Mary Ball shared best practices and challenges. Ball highlighted the rewarding experience of helping Soldiers define their post-military goals. She recently assisted Spc. Joey Parli, who, after surviving a severe motorcycle accident, found a new path in life. Parli, once a Corrections/Detention Specialist, discovered a passion for golf and pursued a degree in kinesiology while recovering at JBLM's Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU). TCs like Ball help Soldiers connect with necessary resources, guiding them through educational and career transitions. Parli now studies at the University of Colorado, crediting the support from TCs and the SRU for his successful transition. Ball emphasizes that each Soldier's journey is unique, and TCs are committed to finding the right resources and support to help them succeed... MORE

Retired Army Spc. Joey Parli utilizes golf as part of his therapy during his recovery from a motorcycle hit-and-run accident

“It’s not just something I say. Adaptive sports truly saved my life.” ~ Corine Hamilton
July 11, 2024 — Corine Hamilton, initially resistant to adaptive sports as part of her recovery at Walter Reed's Soldier Recovery Unit, now credits them with transforming her mental and physical health. Following a life-altering car crash in Germany in 2021 that left her paralyzed from the waist down, Hamilton found hope and purpose through adaptive sports. Encouraged by the Army Recovery Care Program, she has become a nine-time medalist for Team Army at the Department of Defense Warrior Games. Competing in events like shot put, where she achieved a personal best and gold medal, has boosted her confidence and upper body strength, essential for her daily life. Hamilton, who also competed in the 2022 Warrior Games and the Invictus Games, is dedicated to continuing her training and supporting fellow athletes, all while pursuing a degree in healthcare management. She aims to inspire others in their mental and physical recovery journeys... MORE

Spc. (R) Corine Hamilton competes in hand cycling at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Adaptive Sports is not just a game changer; it’s a life changer!
July 2, 2024 — Retired Army Sgt. First Class Gabi Cha, a two-time Warrior Games athlete and participant in the 2022 Invictus Games, emphasizes the transformative power of adaptive sports for wounded, ill, or injured servicemembers. Competing at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Cha celebrates the magic of the Warrior Games held at Disney. Despite severe injuries from her 2007 deployment in Baghdad, resulting in multiple surgeries and right leg paralysis, Cha has triumphed in adaptive sports, earning multiple medals. She reflects on the life-changing impact of adaptive sports, particularly during challenging times such as the recent loss of her mother and grandmother. As a mentor and medalist in track, cycling, and field events, Cha continues to inspire and support fellow athletes, focusing on her future endeavors in sit-skiing, bobsledding, wheelchair rugby, and hand cycling marathons... MORE

U.S. Army veteran Gabi Cha participates in the seated shot put at field practice during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Being here is such an honor
June 30, 2024 — Sgt. Noah Rydesky is thrilled to compete for Team Army at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Orlando, describing the experience as an honor beyond anything he's ever known. His journey to the Games was harrowing; after being assaulted and left for dead in Colorado on February 13, 2022, he was found with frostbite and severe injuries. His recovery began in a hospital and continued at the Fort Carson Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU), where the supportive staff helped him overcome his physical and emotional challenges. Initially struggling in a dark place, Rydesky found solace and strength in adaptive sports, which he quickly embraced. Now, he competes in field, track, and swimming, his favorite sport. Rydesky's competitive spirit shines as he jokes about aiming for gold and proudly thanks his coaches and the SRU staff for their unwavering support... MORE

Team Army athlete Sgt. Noah Rydesky, with one of his gold medals in swimming, was flanked by athletes from Team Air Force and Team Marines

Adaptive sports helped me have a routine
June 29, 2024 — Army Specialist Alexis Pantoja's journey of recovery and resilience is nothing short of miraculous. After suffering a traumatic brain injury from a bicycle hit-and-run accident on September 24, 2022, Pantoja was in a coma for ten days and had to relearn basic skills such as walking, talking, and writing. His rehabilitation included participation in adaptive sports at the Fort Bliss Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU), which helped him establish a daily routine and regain his abilities. Now a competitor in the Department of Defense Warrior Games in Orlando, Florida, Pantoja reflects on his remarkable progress and the importance of adaptive sports in his recovery. Although he will not return to duty due to his medical condition, Pantoja proudly represents Team Army in field, track, and rowing events. His story highlights the power of perseverance, routine, and the support of a dedicated community, inspiring others with similar challenges to strive for a positive outcome... MORE

Spc. Alexis Pantoja of Team Army throws in the discus competition

“When I learned about the Warrior Games, it gave me hope again.”
June 28, 2024 — U.S. Army Specialist Darnell Boynton of the Georgia National Guard turned his post-injury challenges into a triumphant return to sports. After suffering a severe knee injury that required surgery in December 2021, Boynton struggled with his inactivity. However, his time at the Fort Stewart Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) and participation in adaptive sports reignited his passion. Despite being told he would never run or play sports again, Boynton's determination and coaching led to his recovery and selection for Team Army at the Warrior Games for the second time in three years. His story exemplifies resilience, as he encourages others to persist despite setbacks. Beyond the competition, Boynton values the camaraderie and support among athletes, which motivated him to reenlist. His journey underscores the importance of never giving up and finding strength in community... MORE

U.S. Army Spc. Darnell Boynton pushes out in front during the track competition

We have to give it our all; that’s why we are here!
June 27, 2024 — U.S. Army Staff Sgt. John Michael Britton has experienced a diverse and challenging military career, serving as an active duty MP, a reserve combat engineer, and finally, an active duty infantryman. His career took a dramatic turn in 2023 when a motorcycle accident in Alaska resulted in the loss of his right leg and a severe arm injury. Despite this setback, Britton has shown remarkable resilience and is competing in the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games in multiple events, including archery, field, swimming, and track. His favorite, archery, has helped him strengthen his arm and adapt to his new physical circumstances. Supported by his family and the rehabilitation teams at Joint Base San Antonio and Brooke Army Medical Center, Britton advocates for adaptive sports as a means of boosting confidence and embracing new challenges. His positive outlook serves as an inspiration for others facing similar obstacles... MORE

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. John Britton competes in the archery event

Anybody who wants to try an adaptive sport should just do it!
June 26, 2024 — Retired Army Spc. Michael Villagran, who lost his right leg after stepping on a bomb in Afghanistan in 2012, has found recovery and resilience through adaptive sports. Despite the challenges, he embraced adaptive sports, leading to significant improvement over time. Villagran competes in the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games in events such as wheelchair rugby and sitting volleyball, demonstrating his determination and hard work. His journey from limb salvage attempts to choosing amputation showcases his tenacity. Villagran's participation aims to inspire others facing medical challenges to explore adaptive sports. Supported by his three daughters, he prepares to represent the U.S. in the upcoming Invictus Winter Games. Villagran appreciates the camaraderie among his fellow athletes and is proud of Team Army's achievements... MORE

U.S. Army veteran Michael Villagran accepts Team Army's bronze medal for wheelchair rugby during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

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