I was injured in Iraq.  Roadside bomb that nearly took my legs off and left me burned over 45% of my body.  It's been a very long (not to mention, excruciatingly painful) ordeal.

I am now home in America, where I continue to receive treatment.  I have had several surgeries and face more in the future.  I cannot walk without pain; I use a cane to steady me as I ambulate.  I also have physical and occupational therapies twice a week at the local VA hospital.

I do have my moments of depression and anger, but what good is that going to do me if I remain there?  I choose to be happy and forgive those who did this to me.  It may sound funny, but I can't harbor anger towards the enemy; they were only doing their job (and I was doing mine; I just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time).

I do have my days where I have vivid nightmares or flashbacks of seeing my buddies killed before my very eyes, but I am trying to put my life back together.  It isn't easy by a long shot, believe me.  I'm just grateful that I survived and am able to walk (with help) and wasn't injured any worse than I already was.

I don't know what the future will hold for me, but one thing is for certain: I will try to move on to the best of my ability and I will do all I can to further my ongoing recovery and help others in the process.

~To be continued!~