I posted the following in the Special Needs forum a few days ago, but have more info and thought it deserved more exposure to the membership.
I recently saw a post shared on Facebook about a soldier from Crestview, FL area who was wounded serving in Afghanistan. This young man lost both legs and part of a hand in an IED explosion. He is now undergoing rehab, fitting for prosthetics, etc. and will be coming home soon to Crestview.
Where we come in, is that this soldier's home needs some repairs and probably some remodeling to accommodate his special needs. So far the only details I have are that his roof needs some repairs and his driveway may need paving or resurfacing. Might also need ramps installed and other accessibility mods. I'll pass on info as I get it.
I know we have some members up in the panhandle area. If you are up that way or know someone who is a roofer, contractor, carpenters, handyman, willing volunteer, etc. who works up that way, please leave a comment in this thread or PM me.
I'm also going to see if there is any type of fund set up to accept donations if anyone is so inclined. Before doing so, I will also check the story out and do what I can to ensure it's a legit cause.
If you have any questions, or have experience with what this young man will be facing, please add your comments.
It ain't much compared to what this soldier has sacrificed serving our country, but if you can do something to help a wounded warrior carry on with his life, I believe you'll never regret it.
Thanks!
Gary
:united
And here's info received through my contact, who is in contact with one of the other Green Berets in the unit:
The house is a one story, three bedroom house with an attic. It is a rather large house, with a detached garage, and Josh was able to afford it because it was a "fixer-upper". The biggest thing the house needs is a new roof. I know Josh really wanted to put a metal roof, something I am unfamiliar with, on the house. Before he got hurt that is. The house does have some steps leading up to the main entrance, as well as the side and back doors. Also, another big issue I see is that the driveway leading up to the house is very loosely packed sand. Being that he does not have his knee joints, this will make getting around that much harder, and it will be impassable via wheelchair. Josh also mentioned to me that one major modification that must be done to comply with insurance issues is that he has to have an exit from the house directly from his room.
I am unfamiliar with Home Depot's program. There is a Lowes in the town we live in, and a Home Depot in Destin not far away. I will see what I can find out from my guys that are still at home.
As far as his medical capabilities are concerned, they will be extremely limited. The unit, unfortunately, has had several guys get injured and loose limbs. The "above-the-knee" guys, which Josh is, always seem to have the most difficult time with day to day tasks, and I would guess that they spend a good amount of time in a chair.
I must say, I feel a little strange telling all of this to you and asking for this help. I know Josh never in a million years would think of it. As you know, our unit prides itself in being 'quiet professionals' and this sort of thing is outside the norm. I can't tell you how much all of your work means to us, and will mean to Josh. For me personally, it really makes all the hard work worth it. Make sure you spread my thanks to all of your "people". It really means a lot.
Thank you again, and God bless you,
Austin
can we got some more info on the soldier? Name, unit, contact info etc.
can we got some more info on the soldier? Name, unit, contact info etc.
If I can get it, I'll post it. No details that specific yet.
I would like more info so when u get it -post it
