This year I will retire from the Navy after more than twenty years of combined active and reserve time. While I am sad that this part of my life is coming to a close I have recently found a way to stay connected to other service members in my community. Last year I became involved with a new organization called Veterans Recovery Resources (VRR) which was founded in my hometown of Mobile, Alabama. VRR’s mission is to accelerate Veteran well-being by removing the barriers to care and providing a unique recovery program to veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors suffering from post-traumatic stress, substance abuse and other wellness challenges. They provide physical, mental, emotional and spiritual care in one place using a unique peer driven and community based approach. This “for veterans by veterans” approach is what initially attracted me to this organization and what I believe will make a difference.
This October I will run my third marathon when I attempt the 2019 Chicago Marathon. I would like to dedicate my training and marathon to veterans in need. I am asking for your support in raising $15,000 for VRR. The funds raised will go directly to supporting a peer-based approach to help get Veterans back to the productive lives they want to live. To make things clear, none of the proceeds will be used in any way to support my entry, travel or training. I have already paid my entry fee and the plane tickets have been purchased. As someone who has served in our military, I have seen first-hand some of the struggles our service members can face. Please donate what you can to help me support this great organization. Training for this marathon will be difficult but not nearly as difficult as what some of our brave warriors and their families are going through.
