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Tag: ARCP

Tough times don’t last; tough people do
August 22, 2024 — Master Sgt. Natalia Laughlin, a combat medic and mother of three, faced significant challenges after sustaining injuries during a run in 2022. As a former platoon sergeant at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU), Laughlin found herself on the receiving end of the care she once provided. Her injuries included a hip and back injury, as well as a torn ligament in her hand. While managing her recovery, Laughlin also dealt with her 20-year-old daughter’s epilepsy and upcoming brain surgery, adding emotional strain to her physical recovery. Despite the hardships, Laughlin found strength in gratitude and the support of the SRU, including one-on-one therapy. She encourages others to embrace the SRU programs and seek help, emphasizing the importance of mental health and vulnerability. Her motto, “Tough times don’t last; tough people do,” embodies her resilience and determination to inspire others... MORE

“Their goal is to help my goal become a reality.” ~ Sgt. Russel Mendenhall
August 22, 2024 — Sgt. Russel Mendenhall experienced a life-altering injury while on patrol in Somalia, where he suffered a brain bleed and seizure after hitting his head in a Humvee. Diagnosed with Todd Paralysis, he was airlifted from Djibouti to Saudi Arabia and later to a hospital in Germany. His recovery journey eventually brought him to the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Fort Carson, Colorado, where he found immense support. With help from his Recovery Care Coordinator, Kenneth Tate, and the dedicated SRU staff, Mendenhall embraced the rehabilitation process, aiming to return to duty while balancing his full-time nursing studies in Utah. He is now committed to spreading awareness about the SRU's importance, encouraging fellow soldiers to prioritize their recovery and utilize the program’s resources... MORE

Staff Sgt. Qwane Hane and Sgt. Russel Mendenhall at the Fort Carson Soldier Recovery Unit

Returning to duty or not, the SRU is for you
August 19, 2024 — Sgt. 1st Class Miles Kihara served 14 years in the Army Special Forces with the 1st Battalion and planned to serve 20, but health issues led him to the Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) after being stationed in Okinawa. Kihara knew little about the SRU but quickly realized it was the right place for him to focus on recovery. Engaging in physical therapy, adaptive reconditioning, and job fairs, he found the SRU to be a supportive environment. Now in the medical board process, Kihara plans to retire in the coming months and is exploring new career opportunities, emphasizing how the Army Recovery Care Program helps soldiers through transitions... MORE

Sgt. 1st Class Miles Kihara explains how showing up in person to meet with potential employers at a job fair is crucial

“If your time in the Army is done, find a new mission.” ~ Ret. Army 1st LT Cameron Kerr
August 7, 2024 — Retired Army 1st Lieutenant Cameron Kerr served with the 101st Airborne Division in Kandahar from 2010-2011, where he was severely injured by an IED explosion, resulting in a left leg amputation. Despite the trauma, Kerr remained conscious throughout his ordeal, allowing him to process the situation and communicate with his family before surgery. He credits the Army Recovery Care Program (ARCP) for his rehabilitation, praising its physical therapy and support. Now, years later, Kerr works as an Operations Manager for ARCP, completing a full circle by contributing to the very program that helped him recover. His advice to recovering Soldiers is to accept their situation quickly, embrace new opportunities, and find a new mission to pursue... MORE

Cameron Kerr and his wife were in front of the 24-foot Tiny House on Wheels they had built

Mother of five thankful for SRU during pregnancy
August 7, 2024 — Staff Sgt. Brittany Ramsey, a mother of five and a Soldier, found herself needing the Army's Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) during her fifth pregnancy due to complications like gestational diabetes and a pelvic floor prolapse. Initially skeptical, she realized the value of the SRU, which helped her recover physically and pursue her long-time goal of attending law school. Ramsey, now in a JD flex program, credits the SRU for providing the support she needed to stay on track with her career and education, emphasizing the importance of listening to your body and seeking help when needed... MORE

Brittany Ramsey’s family: Husband Phillip; Their Children (L-R) Harper, Tobin, Phillip, Sadie, and Samuel.

Working with Chaplain not part of Soldier’s plan
July 30, 2024 — Staff Sgt. Junel Custodio, known as "Pops," joined the Army at 31, starting in the Infantry as a Medic before becoming a Chaplain's Assistant. His journey back to faith began after meeting Chaplain Brian Harvey during a suicide prevention talk, which led Custodio to embrace spirituality and stop drinking. Despite experiencing significant losses and physical pain, Custodio found solace and purpose in his new role. After injuring his back on deployment, he was sent to the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Fort Belvoir, where he underwent surgeries and received comprehensive support. Custodio is now being medically discharged and plans to pursue a master's in clinical therapy or social work to continue serving Soldiers. Music, a lifelong passion, played a therapeutic role in his recovery, culminating in a memorable performance of the National Anthem at a Washington Nationals game. Custodio's story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the importance of support systems in overcoming adversity... MORE

Staff Sgt Junel Custodio is a Chaplain’s assistant in the Army

National Guard Soldiers need to learn about the SRU
July 29, 2024 — Sgt 1st Class Adrienne Toliver, with a 34-year career in the Maryland National Guard, also worked as a contractor for the Defense Intelligence Agency. During her last deployment, she needed surgery for a severe foot issue and was sent to the Fort Belvoir Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) in November 2022. Toliver had previously sent Soldiers to the SRU but never expected to need its services herself. Her experience highlighted the importance of the SRU for both Active Duty and National Guard Soldiers. At the SRU, she received comprehensive care that addressed her physical, mental, and spiritual health, especially significant as she dealt with the loss of her sister. Toliver managed to continue her education, completing a master's degree in healthcare administration with a 3.7 GPA. She emphasizes the critical support SRUs provide, from medical care to morale activities, and advises Soldiers to utilize these resources rather than attempting recovery alone. Awaiting medical retirement, Toliver remains committed to informing fellow Guardsmen about the benefits of the Army Recovery Care Program... MORE

“When you transfer to an SRU, your main mission is to get better and go back into the fight!”
July 25, 2024 — Sgt 1st Class Luis Goenaga-Beauchamp, known as "G," has a unique perspective on the Army Recovery Care Program (ARCP) after personally benefiting from it multiple times in his 24-year career. After nine deployments and several surgeries for medical issues, including a hiatal hernia, "G" utilized the Soldier Recovery Units (SRUs) at Ft Stewart, Fort Bliss, and Fort Moore to recover. His extensive experience with SRUs led him to become a squad leader at Ft Cavazos SRU and later an operations NCO at MRC-West, Ft Sam Houston. "G" emphasizes the importance of SRUs in focusing solely on the Soldier's recovery, dispelling the myth that they hinder career progression. He advocates for Soldiers to use the support and resources available, such as the Career Education and Readiness branch, to ensure long-term health and career stability. His empathy and firsthand experience make him a strong advocate for the wounded, ill, or injured Soldiers, urging them to prioritize their recovery and leverage the comprehensive support offered by the ARCP... MORE

Sgt 1st Class Luis Goenaga-Beauchamp is proud to have been part of the Army Recovery Care Program

Transition Coordinators to Soldiers: We’ve got your back!
July 23, 2024 — At the annual training for Transition Coordinators (TCs) at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, TCs gathered to discuss new policies and best practices for aiding Soldiers transitioning out of the Army. James Coleman, a TC at Fort Belvoir's Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU), emphasized the privilege of his role, noting his understanding of Soldiers' struggles as a former Marine. Stephen Kammerdiener, a TC at Fort Campbell's SRU with a long military family background, highlighted the importance of building personal relationships with Soldiers to effectively guide them. TCs play a crucial role in offering Soldiers opportunities for job skills training, career fairs, and educational prospects, aiming to support them through their transition. Both Coleman and Kammerdiener stressed the need to build trust with Soldiers, who often face significant uncertainty. They expressed pride in their work and the positive impact they have on Soldiers' futures... MORE

Stephen Kammerdiener and James Coleman, both Transition Coordinators in the Army Recovery Care Program

Soldiers getting out? Listen to that Transition Coordinator!
July 18, 2024 — At the annual Transition Coordinator (TC) Sustainment Training for the Army Recovery Care Program (ARCP), Sgt. Major Imari Jackson, the Senior Enlisted Advisor for ARCP, emphasized the vital role TCs play in assisting wounded, ill, or injured Soldiers, especially those facing medical retirement. Jackson praised TCs as premier transition specialists, crucial in helping Soldiers navigate their future plans amidst personal challenges. He highlighted the comprehensive support available to Soldiers at the Soldier Recovery Unit, including the Career Skills Program, which aids in acquiring civilian job skills. Jackson underscored the genuine care TCs provide, urging Soldiers to trust in the program's support for their future success... MORE

Sgt. Major Imari Jackson, Sr enlisted advisor for the Army Recovery Care Program, lets Transition Coordinators know they are the best at helping Soldiers Transition out of the Army.

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

Heart of Gold
July 16, 2024 — Retired Army Spc. JP Lane received the Heart of the Team Award at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games, an honor voted on by his teammates. This marked Lane's debut as an athlete at the games, a stark contrast to his previous role as an ESPN commentator in 2022. A survivor of a 200lb bomb blast in Afghanistan, Lane lost both legs and sustained multiple injuries but found renewed purpose through adaptive sports. His wife, Crystal, and teammates, including Retired Army Sgt. Shawn Lee, highlight his ability to inspire and uplift others. Lane, who won multiple medals at the games, advocates for sharing personal stories to help others facing challenges... MORE

Assistant Secretary of the Air Force, Honorable Alex Wagner, left, congratulates U.S. Army veteran J.P. Lane for earning the Heart of the Team Award for Team Army at the send-off ceremony during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

“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

Just keep moving
July 9, 2024 — Sgt 1st Class Jeffrey Peters faced an unexpected setback just days before the 2024 Warrior Games due to a severe cycling accident. Despite his injuries, Peters arrived in Orlando determined to support his team. Known for his past successes, including eleven medals at the 2022 Warrior Games and three at the 2023 Invictus Games, Peters' resolve was undiminished. His journey through recovery, following an ischemic stroke in 2021, exemplifies his resilience. With the help of the Soldier Recovery Unit at Fort Riley and the support of his family, Peters overcame significant physical challenges. At the 2024 Warrior Games, he adapted to compete with one arm, winning eight medals. Peters' story is a testament to perseverance and the strength of the Warrior Games community, encouraging others to keep moving forward despite their obstacles... MORE

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John D. Kline, Commanding General of the United States Army Center for Initial Military Training, United States Army Training and Doctrine Command, right, presents the silver medal to Sgt. 1st Class Jeffrey Peters in a medal ceremony at the track event during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Recovery Services to the rescue!
July 5, 2024 — Ten days, eleven adaptive sports, and more than 200 athletes from the U.S. and Australia made the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Orlando not only memorable but also a source of inspiration for the broader community. It takes immense dedication to pull these games off—from logistics to coaches to communications and medical. With their unwavering commitment, the Medical Team for Team Army was like a daily cog in the wheel, helping to keep the machine moving. We found Retired Staff Sgt Gene Calantoc on track day on a table in the medical tent. His teammates nicknamed him "Gene the Machine" at these games! Daniel Rendeiro, a physical therapist from Ft. Cavasos, did his best to keep Gene the Machine moving. "I'm working on Gene's back. He just finished throwing the discus, which puts a lot of rotational stress on the back, so it took a toll on his mid-back. I will do my best to get the soreness out," said Rendeiro. Calantoc, a left-leg above-the-knee amputee, participated in seven of the eleven sporting events. Rendeiro emphasized the unique challenges these athletes face at the Warrior Games when we asked about the importance of a robust medical team. "The key is that most folks don't realize how grueling it is here at Warrior Games. An Olympic athlete has one event they specialize in and compete in, and these athletes here are required to specialize in multiple events over a very brief and intense period." Calantoc went from powerlifting to cycling, then wheelchair rugby, indoor rowing to wheelchair basketball, archery, and field events, all in eight days. "We call it recovery services because we help them recover between events so they can be at their best for the next event," said Rendeiro, underlining the vital role of the medical team in the recovery process. Calantoc's determination was evident as he expressed his readiness to return to the competition after Rendeiro's help. "I'm feeling amazing because all the physical therapists are out here for us athletes every day. We have so many sports; we must wake up and do it again. Our resilience keeps us going but having them around us gives us hope. Especially if you get injured, they are helping us out here." The help goes beyond the PT Rubdown. These athletes are continuing to recover and overcome, and it is not lost on this team of professionals who've pledged their support to this fantastic Army team. "That's why we have the medically related staff here, including the healthcare staff, physical therapists, athletic trainers, and physical therapy assistants. Our lead is a Physician's Assistant, and we also have a clinical social worker here for behavioral health. We've got the athletes covered! We want to help them in any area they need," said Rendeiro. This medical team is always sitting on ready, and Calantoc appreciates them, and the entire support system, for Team Army at the games. He smiles and shares his progress so far. "I got silver in powerlifting, cycling, rowing, and rugby, bronze and silver in archery, and silver in wheelchair basketball." He also won a silver in discus and a bronze in shotput. That's nine medals for the machine! Medals aside, Calantoc has a message for anyone experiencing a drastic health change. He encourages adaptive sports for physical and mental health: "Go out there and try it; your injury or illness is not the end of your life. Talk to and connect with an athlete to get inspiration. Seeing people better than me pumps me up and makes me want to do better. This mutual support within the athlete community is a powerful motivator. Go find someone better than you and get motivated!"... MORE

Physical Therapist 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

“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