Stories

Tag: Adaptive Reconditioning Program

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.

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

“They were going to make sure I got back to my daughter” ~ Cpl. Melesete Togia
April 29, 2024 — The article recounts Cpl. Melesete Togia's harrowing battle with COVID-19 while deployed in Iraq, where she nearly lost her life and accepted her impending death. Through the heroic efforts of medical staff in Iraq and Germany, she survived and returned home to her daughter. Togia emphasizes the profound impact of the Army Recovery Care Program, which supported her physical and emotional recovery, enabling her to participate in adaptive sports and compete for Team Army. Now retired, she is grateful for the program's role in her transformation and encourages others facing challenges to seek help and embrace opportunities for growth and healing... MORE

I want to show others you can be resilient no matter what.
April 26, 2024 — Staff Sgt Daniel Pereyra's journey through a health crisis and career change is marked by gratitude despite pain. Diagnosed with stage four tongue cancer in 2022 while serving in Fort Bliss, Pereyra underwent a grueling seventeen-hour surgery, enduring chemo and radiation afterward. Despite the challenges, he found support from his military unit and is now transitioning to a career outside the Army due to medical retirement. Pereyra's resilience, fueled by his love for music and teaching, propels him forward as he plans to become a nurse and continue helping others, showcasing his determination to overcome cancer and inspire resilience in others... MORE

Staff Sgt Daniel Pereyra at the 2024 Army Trials

How the Army outfits wounded Soldiers for life after recovery.
January 2, 2024 — The Army Recovery Care Program (ARCP) emphasizes Adaptive Reconditioning, ensuring soldiers recovering from wounds, injuries, or illnesses have access to suitable equipment and opportunities for physical and therapeutic activities. Chris Uggiano, the Program Manager, highlights the importance of providing equipment for adaptive sports and diverse activities beyond traditional sports, facilitating holistic recovery and preparation for life after Soldier Recovery Units (SRUs). Education on equipment usage and safety is prioritized, aiming to empower soldiers and optimize their rehabilitation experience. With a focus on equipping soldiers for success beyond recovery, ARCP underscores the significance of personalized support and resources to foster resilience and improve overall well-being... MORE

Team Army Coach Chris Uggiano embraces U.S. Army Spc. Timothy Capps after finishing his race on June 6, 2023, during the Department of Defense Warrior Games Challenge. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Anthony Hopper)

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