Today is a day just like most others. I woke up, did some work around the house and am getting ready for another week trying to keep the momentum with my startup moving. The only difference is the significance of what happened three years ago and that I have the opportunity to reflect and thank everyone who has sacrificed, and continues to sacrifice, to support me.
Exactly three years ago I was confronted with a situation that altered my life in many ways. Physically, psychologically, spiritually, and emotionally. In most respects, I would say that getting shot and paralyzed is a wholly negative event. Conversely, the path I have traveled in the past three years has been absolutely incredible.
I am not the least bit sad, bitter, or angry. I feel content, excited, and anxious because I still have the opportunity to achieve goals I have set for myself. Every day is an opportunity for me to do something lasting and meaningful. Every day I think about those who made the ultimate sacrifice and no longer have the opportunities that I do. The past few years have not been easy, but I have found a new cause that I am as passionate about pursuing as I was while leading Marines and Sailors in the Special Operations Community. I get up every day excited. I get out of bed knowing the problems I am trying to solve and the impact I hope to have on people’s lives.
I have this opportunity because of everyone who helped me become a Marine Special Operations Officer, the men who saved my life exactly three years ago by risking their lives to save mine, and those who have been there to support me every step of the way since I was injured.
There are too many people to thank individually because I have been fortunate to meet so many people who have had such a positive impact on my life. It is because of you that I am alive and it is because of you that I continue to fight every day to create positive change. Thank you!
