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

I’m going to push through to put my team on top!
June 25, 2024 — U.S. Army Spc. Janmiguel Torres-Cruz is competing at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports. Selected for Team Army after the 2024 Army Trials, Torres-Cruz is enthusiastic about participating in rugby, volleyball, and basketball. He helped Team Army secure their first-ever bronze in wheelchair rugby, showcasing the impact of adaptive sports on his recovery from severe knee and back injuries sustained during a deployment to Poland. Medically retired and now a full-time student in Puerto Rico, Torres-Cruz credits adaptive sports and the Army Recovery Care Program for transforming his mentality and aiding his physical and mental health. Engaged and planning a wedding, he remains passionate about sports, which continue to inspire and motivate him... MORE

U.S. Army Spc. Janmiguel TorresCruz prepares to return a serve at sitting volleyball practice for Team Army during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Team Army Sgt. 1st Class Jack Peko: “I’m giving hope to those with a stroke”
June 24, 2024 — U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Jack Peko, who suffered a stroke in November 2022, is now recovering at the Ft. Riley Kansas Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) and competing in the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games. Learning about adaptive sports at the SRU, Peko represents Team Army in Orlando, using his experiences to inspire others with similar conditions. Despite using a wheelchair and working on his speech, he medaled in the precision air rifle competition and looks forward to competing in shot put and discus. Peko's wife, Gloriah, and their children support his journey, emphasizing the importance of adaptive sports in recovery and resilience... MORE

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Jack Peko wins silver for Team Army in the precision air competition during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Team Army and Team Australia - A Cancer connect and friends for life
June 23, 2024 — At the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Orlando, U.S. Army Capt. Hannah Wright and Australia Army Sgt. Emily Lahey formed an instant bond after discovering they both had cancer diagnoses during a chance meeting in the ladies' room. Lahey, on long-term medical leave due to terminal cancer, and Wright, a recent ovarian cancer survivor, found camaraderie and support in each other's stories. Both emphasized the importance of a positive mindset and participating in adaptive sports as part of their recovery. Despite ongoing treatments, they are committed to living fully and appreciating their ability to compete, with Wright winning bronze in powerlifting. Their newfound friendship exemplifies the unifying power of shared experiences and resilience... MORE

U.S. Army Capt. Hannah Wright, left, and Australia Army Sgt. Emily Lahey congratulate each other at the powerlifting competition

Team Army Staff Sgt. Derrick Thompson: “This is redemption year”
June 23, 2024 — Staff Sgt. Derrick Thompson views this year's Warrior Games in Orlando with greater preparedness and determination compared to last year's Warrior Games Challenge in San Diego. After being diagnosed with life-threatening diabetes three years ago and undergoing recovery at the Joint Base San Antonio Soldier Recovery Unit, Thompson participated cautiously last year. This year, he is fully committed, aiming for redemption, and has already won gold in the men’s 200-meter and silver in the 100-meter track events. Thompson is also competing in multiple sports, including cycling, archery, and wheelchair basketball. Beyond sports, he recently welcomed his third child and is preparing for retirement. His focus on health, bolstered by the Army Recovery Care Program and his SRU, has been crucial in his recovery. Embracing his new normal with positivity and gratitude, Thompson is motivated to be his best for his family and team, playfully confident about Team Army's success... MORE

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Derrick Thompson competes in the cycling event during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Cpl. Patrick Dayton: “Adaptive sports are a lifeline to a life with others like me.”
June 21, 2024 — Retired Army Cpl. Patrick Dayton, who lost his leg in a motorcycle accident in 2022, found a renewed sense of purpose through adaptive sports and the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games. Initially not athletic, Dayton discovered the camaraderie and team spirit he missed from the military through the Warrior Games. After extensive rehab at the Center for the Intrepid, he embraced his new life as an amputee and immersed himself in adaptive sports. Now a proud member of Team Army, he competes in powerlifting, indoor rowing, swimming, and track, finding emotional and physical strength among fellow warriors. Dayton highlights the importance of adaptive sports in providing a new purpose and a supportive community for those with visible and invisible injuries... MORE

U.S. Army veteran Cpl. Patrick Dayton waits for his turn to compete in the field event at the 2024 Army Trials, Fort Liberty, North Carolina

Spc. Noah Strunk: “Warriors are always ready to go, and I am.”
June 20, 2024 — Army Spc. Noah Strunk is competing in the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games as he prepares to medically retire from the Army on June 28th. Strunk, a field artillery radar operator, joined the Army with plans to serve for twenty years but sustained a severe knee injury in 2022, leading to multiple surgeries and his participation in the Army Recovery Care Program. Adaptive sports became a crucial part of his recovery, giving him a new purpose and helping him overcome depression. Strunk's passion for the Army remains strong, and he is determined to excel in swimming, track, and cycling at the Warrior Games, viewing this competition as a continuation of his journey rather than its end... MORE

U.S. Army Spc. Noah Strunk is pumped and ready to compete with Team Army at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Team Army Ultimate Champion: “I had let go of the crutches in life, and the word can’t.”
June 6, 2024 — Retired Army Sgt. Justin Mathers, after a severe motorcycle accident left him unable to feel his legs, embarked on a remarkable recovery journey through the Fort Liberty Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU), leading him to compete in the Department of Defense Warrior Games. Following injuries sustained in Iraq and subsequent surgeries, Mathers discovered adaptive sports at the SRU, initially struggling but eventually finding inspiration from fellow veterans. Encouraged by his wife and a dedicated physical therapist, he shed weight and successfully competed in the 2022 Warrior Games, earning multiple medals. Determined to push his limits, Mathers transitioned from recumbent cycling to becoming a USA para-cycling national champion. Now, as he prepares for the 2024 Warrior Games, Mathers reflects on his transformative experience, crediting the SRU and adaptive sports for his recovery and renewed sense of purpose. With aspirations for the Paralympics and Team US at Invictus, he emphasizes the vital role of adaptive sports in helping veterans feel relevant and connected... MORE

Ret. Army Sgt. Justin Mathers trains with Former Team Army and Team US athlete Mike Murphy.

Catch me if you can!
June 6, 2024 — Retired Staff Sgt. Gene Calantoc is set to compete in the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games, held from June 21-30 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando. After losing his left leg above the knee following a motorcycle accident in March 2020, Calantoc discovered adaptive sports through the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Joint Base San Antonio. An avid athlete before his injury, he embraced sports like archery, powerlifting, rugby, cycling, wheelchair basketball, and rowing to aid his recovery. Weighing 130 pounds, he can bench press 259 pounds and aims to double his weight. Training five times a week, he strives to improve daily, driven by his personal motto of outdoing his previous performance. Calantoc is determined to make Team US and compete in the Invictus Games, with aspirations for the Paralympics in archery and powerlifting. His positive outlook and discipline are bolstered by the camaraderie of his teammates and the support of his family. Excited to compete and help fellow athletes facing similar challenges, he emphasizes that an injury or illness is not the end but a new beginning. Known for his speed and competitive spirit, Calantoc is ready to showcase his skills at the Warrior Games, particularly in wheelchair basketball and rugby, with a playful warning to his Air Force competitors: "Be ready – you gotta catch me!"... MORE

Retired Staff Sgt. Gene Calantoc steals the ball and makes the basket in a wheelchair basketball competition at the 2024 Army Trials

The Army Caregiver Program issues new resource guide for caregivers and families of wounded, ill or injured Soldiers.
June 1, 2024 — The Army Caregiver Program has released a new resource guide titled "Army Caregiver Fact Sheet" for caregivers and families of wounded, ill, or injured Soldiers. This guide provides comprehensive information to help caregivers navigate the steps required during a medical emergency, from traveling to the Soldier's bedside to managing medical care and recovery. It includes details on Army requirements, necessary documentation, important contacts, and available assistance, such as invitational travel authorizations and special compensations. The fact sheet can be accessed and downloaded from www.arcp.army.mil/family_caregivers/process/inpatient... MORE

Retired Army Sgt. Joel Rodriguez, his wife Liannie - his caregiver – pose with their children after Team Army medaled silver in the wheelchair basketball game at the 2022 Warrior Games in Orlando, FL

“I’m most proud of myself for not giving up” ~ Capt. Victoria Rollin
May 26, 2024 — Veteran Captain Victoria Rollin, recently retired from the Army, has been selected for Team Army at the Department of Defense Warrior Games in Orlando. Her journey to the games marks a significant milestone in her recovery from the severe emotional distress and mental health challenges she faced, including psychosis and a bipolar disorder diagnosis, stemming from sexual harassment and trauma during her military service. Rollin credits the Army Recovery Care Program and adaptive sports for her ongoing rehabilitation and newfound sense of purpose. Grateful for the support she has received, Rollin is determined to share her positive experience with the Soldier Recovery Unit and encourages others to seek help without fear of ending their careers. Now, as she trains for the Warrior Games, she finds strength and camaraderie among her teammates and competitors, proud of her resilience and commitment to recovery... MORE

Christina O'Brian (L) and Victoria Rollin run in a cross-country competition.

From Team Army to Team New Orleans Saints & Pelicans… Capt. Nate Degen Scores!
May 26, 2024 — Captain Nate Degen, a resilient and adaptable Army helicopter pilot, is set to compete as a Team Army athlete at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games. Alongside this achievement, he has been offered a groundbreaking opportunity to work with the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans through the DOD Skillbridge program. Having recovered from multiple injuries at the Fort Belvoir Soldier Recovery Unit, Degen found support in planning a career in sports management. He expressed excitement about joining the Saints' business operations division, particularly in Fan Engagement Experience, marking a full-circle moment as he grew up a Saints fan. Degen, who will compete in archery, air rifle, shotput, discus, and team sports, attributes his recovery to adaptive sports and the support of his family, team, and fans. Awaiting the birth of his second child, he balances his roles with enthusiasm and determination, sharing words of encouragement and a competitive spirit with his fellow service members... MORE

Capt. Nathan Degen on deployment in the Middle East.

Team Army Ultimate Champion says every day is a new day to get better!
May 26, 2024 — 1st Lt. Hannah Wright of Team Army reflects on her journey to the 2024 Warrior Games, which began as part of her recovery from ovarian cancer. After intensive surgery and chemotherapy, Wright found solace and strength in adaptive sports, significantly improving her stamina and endurance. Now, at 26, she competes for the title of Ultimate Champion, a role she humbly embraces despite initial surprise. Training rigorously under the guidance of recreational therapist Lorraine Currow and former champions Ross Alewine and Lorraine Currow, Wright balances her recovery with her new assignment at Fort Moore, Georgia. She emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability, encouraging others not to discount their abilities despite medical challenges. Grateful for the support from Team Army Nation, Wright is dedicated to representing the Army with pride and determination... MORE

1st Lt Hannah Wright is warming up for track competition at the 2024 Army Trials