Stories

Tag: ARCP

Soldier says hits in rugby and life won’t stop her
February 8, 2024 — Soldiers from various Soldier Recovery Units (SRUs) recently gathered at Fort Belvoir to participate in a wheelchair rugby camp, an intense physical sport that serves as a crucial component of recovery for individuals like Spc. Brooke Jader from Fort Riley SRU. Despite initial health concerns stemming from a deployment to Cuba in 2022, which led her to the SRU due to Bilateral Vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Jader found solace and progress through adaptive sports. Learning to navigate the challenges of wheelchair rugby not only bolstered her physical resilience but also fostered teamwork and confidence, as demonstrated on social media platforms. Grateful for the support and activities provided by the SRU, Jader remains determined in her recovery journey, with aspirations to pursue further studies in the medical field post-Army, alongside competing in the upcoming Army Trials at Fort Liberty. She credits her time at the SRU for shaping her path toward recovery and acknowledges the valuable opportunities it has afforded her... MORE

Spc. Brooke Jader "meets the hit" during wheelchair rugby camp at Ft. Belvoir.

The Army Recovery Care Program is like a one-stop shop for getting well
February 8, 2024 — Sgt First Class Saul Sierra, a veteran of 29 years in the Army, faced a significant shoulder injury in April 2022, leading him to the Fort Campbell Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) for treatment. Through adaptive reconditioning programs, particularly wheelchair rugby, Sierra found newfound motivation and support, inspired by his fiancé's success on Team Army at the Warrior Games. Embracing the resources provided by the Army Recovery Care Program, Sierra is not only focusing on his physical recovery but also preparing for his post-Army career, including federal resume building and management courses. With aspirations to join Team Army at the upcoming Army Trials in March 2024, Sierra emphasizes the importance of utilizing the SRU's services, encouraging younger Soldiers to embrace the care and opportunities available for their recovery and future endeavors... MORE

Sgt. 1st Class Saull Sierra during a warm-up at the 2024 Wheelchair Rigby Camp at Fort Belvoir.

The SRU sets Soldiers up for success whether they return to duty or retire.
February 2, 2024 — After sustaining an injury during a deployment in 2022, Sgt. Christopher Mulligan found himself facing uncertainty about his future as a Soldier. However, his experience at the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, proved to be a turning point. With personalized support and guidance from his Transition Coordinator, James Coleman, Mulligan not only recovered from his injury but also found a new career path in the intelligence community. The SRU's comprehensive assistance, from medical care to career planning, enabled Mulligan to transition smoothly into civilian life, with plans to complete his education and embrace new opportunities. His journey highlights the vital role of support systems like the SRU in helping military personnel navigate life-changing transitions with confidence and optimism... MORE

Sgt Mulligan before his back surgery in July 2022.

Building confidence through adaptive sports
January 29, 2024 — Soldiers in the Army Recovery Care Program find confidence and teamwork through adaptive sports, as highlighted by Col. Roy Walker, emphasizing their therapeutic value for mental and physical well-being. Visiting a wheelchair rugby camp, Walker witnessed firsthand how sports training boosts soldiers' confidence, aiding in their total recovery journey. CW3 Kirk Holden, a participant, shares his positive experience, echoing the sentiment of enjoying the camp while learning and bonding with fellow soldiers. With confidence and hard work, these soldiers aim to excel at the upcoming Army Trials, demonstrating their fearlessness in facing challenges... MORE

Col. Roy Walker visits Soldiers at the 2024 Wheelchair Rugby Camp at Ft. Belvoir.

One Moment in Time
January 23, 2024 — Brandi Evans, a retired Army sergeant and medic, exemplifies the power of kindness and selflessness in the world of adaptive sports. Despite her own competitive drive and success, Evans made a pivotal decision at the 2018 Invictus Games in Sydney, Australia, to support a fellow athlete from the UK, Naomi Adie, in securing a bronze medal, a moment now etched in Invictus history. Evans's journey from injury to mentorship at the Fort Bliss Soldier Recovery Unit underscores the transformative impact of adaptive reconditioning and competitive sports on recovery and resilience. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and determination for soldiers facing adversity, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and community support in overcoming challenges... MORE

Retired Army Sgt. Brandi Evans (right) and Royal Air Force Corporal Naomi "Nomes" Adie show their bond as Aide crosses the finish line to win the bronze after the 1500-meter wheelchair race in Sydney at the 2018 Invictus Games.

It's so rewarding to pass hope on.
January 17, 2024 — Lt. Col. Tim Doherty, a former Army Reservist, overcame injuries and PTSD after a deployment to Afghanistan by discovering the therapeutic benefits of beekeeping. Leaving the Soldier Recovery Unit, he delved into beekeeping, eventually starting Doc’s Healing Hives program, which aids over 100 Soldiers at no cost. Doherty plans to retire from the Army Reserve and his job as an assistant school principal to focus on expanding the program with a USDA grant, aiming to help even more veterans find solace and purpose through beekeeping and nature therapy... MORE

Veterans are amazed as they see the fruits of their labor at Docs Healing Hives in North Georgia.

You have to keep pedaling to finish the race.
January 17, 2024 — Michael Stephens, a visually impaired athlete and two-time Warrior Games competitor for Team Army, has found incredible success in Para Cycling, setting a new world record at the Para Pan Games in Chile. Despite sustaining severe injuries during combat operations in Afghanistan, including spinal injuries and multiple TBIs, Stephens discovered adaptive sports as a means of recovery. His journey from initial skepticism to becoming a world-class cyclist exemplifies resilience and determination. Despite facing challenges such as multiple sclerosis and deteriorating vision, Stephens remains focused on his goals, aiming for the Paris Paralympics. His story is not just about personal triumph but also about giving back and mentoring others on their journey to excellence in sports... MORE

The dynamic duo of Joe Christiansen and Michael Stephens racing for gold at the Parapan Games in Chile last November.

I'm a buck-35 and 5 foot 9 - I can adapt to anything!
January 17, 2024 — Sgt. Alexander Robison's journey from a near-fatal encounter with a suicide bomber to finding solace and strength through wheelchair rugby is an inspiring tale of resilience and community support. After sustaining severe injuries during a deployment, Robison's remarkable recovery at Walter Reed led him to discover adaptive sports, particularly wheelchair rugby, which became a crucial part of his healing process. Despite ongoing struggles with PTSD and physical limitations, Robison's determination shines as he sets his sights on competing for Team Army at the 2024 Army Trials. With unwavering support from the Soldier Recovery Unit and his family, Robison is not only reclaiming his life but also aspiring to help others navigate their own paths to recovery... MORE

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