The author reflects on the challenges of sleep as a quadriplegic, noting its importance for health and well-being. Past experiences of effortless sleep have changed into struggles with discomfort and care routines. Despite occasional restful nights, the author expresses a sense of dread towards bedtime, feeling it has become unproductive and taxing.
Tag Archives: Military
All I Want For Christmas
The author reflects on the significance of Christmas and the impact of their long-distance relationship with his wife. By merging family traditions, creating shared ornaments, and prioritizing time together during holidays, they built a strong bond. After a decade of Christmases together, gratitude for their enduring love remains central to their holiday spirit.
Veterans Day Reflection: From Carrying the Stretcher to Being on It
Veterans Day honors all who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and reflects on sacrifice and resilience. The author shares their journey from a proud Ranger and stretcher bearer to a quadriplegic, grappling with identity and the challenge of accepting help. They emphasize strength in vulnerability and a commitment to serving others.
Memorial Day 2025: A Reflection
Memorial Day honors fallen soldiers, originating after the Civil War as Decoration Day. Beyond ceremonies, it embodies personal remembrance for friends lost and reflects on their sacrifices. The red poppy symbolizes this remembrance, reminding us to honor their legacy while appreciating life. We should live fully, cherishing each moment.
Flag Day
“Oh damn, that’s the Battalion Commander… come on, give him a salute… wait, why can’t I lift my arm?…” When I first started finding consciousness in the hospital, I was overwhelmed and confused. I had to be told what had happened to me multiple times, and I still wasn’t good at comprehending it. One ofContinueContinue reading “Flag Day”
My Military Path
2nd Ranger Battalion (2/75) I reached second battalion out in Washington state in September 2013. This was after basic training, infantry AIT, airborne school & RASP (Ranger Selection) I was a proud little Ranger. In battalion I got to deploy to Afghanistan and spend some time in Oman. I got to see Kuwait & Germany.ContinueContinue reading “My Military Path”
Choose Compassion
Madigan Army Hospital, one of the oldest and largest hospital systems in the military sits proudly inside the gates of JBLM (Joint Base Lewis-McChord). This place evokes a lot of different emotions for me. I spent 4 and a half years on Fort Lewis in Washington, probably driving by Madigan ten thousand times. There wereContinueContinue reading “Choose Compassion”
It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint
There are two quotes that you hear constantly with Spinal Cord Injury…“It’s a marathon, not a sprint” & “no news is good news”Every September is my annual SCI check up at the VA Clinic. It’s just a day full of appointments to track any health changes. It starts with blood work & labs. A Uro-DynamicContinueContinue reading “It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint”
Afghanistan: History Repeating | Humanity in Conflict
Part 1: History Repeating This quadriplegics thoughts about Afghanistan The Taliban retaking the country is a travesty This happening was predictable but is tragic nonetheless. I enjoyed my small piece in helping with training the Afghan Army & it is sad to see them losing the fight on their own. Afghanistan is a mess ofContinueContinue reading “Afghanistan: History Repeating | Humanity in Conflict”
Alive-versary Year 3
February 11th marks a painful anniversary for the author, remembering the day they lost their previous life. Reflecting on February 10th, 2017, as seemingly ordinary, they recall the blissful ignorance before a life-altering event. Emphasizing life’s fragility, the author urges appreciation of every moment, guided by faith in divine plans for the future.