Sept 11, 2019 update from Stephen:
“It is now coming up on a year since I spent approximately seven months at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. While it seems like such a distant chapter in my life, I still think about it often, as well as the experiences that went along with it. One of these experiences was also getting familiar with your organization, SALUTE, INC. The generosity of your organization enabled the purchase of a standing frame/glider for me to help with keeping my bone density in my legs as well as giving me an opportunity to stand up and get out of my chair. I want you to know that I have made great use of it and continue to do so. Thank you so much again!
I just wanted to let you know that even though I have left the Chicago area, I still am very grateful for getting to know you and so thankful for what you and your organization does for service members.”
Chief Warrant Officer Stephen served 18 years in the Army as a Black Hawk pilot, deploying four times to the Middle East. In January, 2017, while training stateside at Fort Campbell, Stephen was seriously hurt, sustaining life–threatening injuries which included major damage to his spinal cord. Stephen underwent multiple surgeries and started his long journey of physical and occupational rehabilitation. His wife and four children managed at home as best they could and visited him as often as possible, traveling to several rehabilitation centers.
Stephen’s situation came to SALUTE’s attention due to our partnership with the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago. Although Stephen was making great progress in his rehabilitation, his doctors advised that he would need some specialized equipment upon his return home. Specifically, the critical piece of equipment was a standing frame/glider that would allow him to get out of his wheelchair and stand – which helps maintain mobility, bone density and cardiovascular health.
SALUTE was proud to provide this piece of equipment to Stephen for use in his home. Stephen writes:
“It is so wonderful to have this equipment, to be able to stand up, to get out of my wheelchair and use this at home. Thank you so much for your generosity! Thank you for what you do for service members and veterans. “
