“Getting Injured during my army service nearly broke me. Now, I am helping other veterans find healing and community.” – Gregory Bowers

Three years into my military service, a wall collapsed and trapped me under it. I really thought that was the end of a chapter for me. I got as far away as possible from the things I used to love… sports, comaraderie. I suffered both physically and mentally. My days felt redundant, and I just didn’t feel useful anymore.

Seven years ago, I started getting emails from an organization called Blaze Sports. I ignored them for awhile, but eventually I decided to give it a try. I showed up to an archery range, mobility restricted, not having picked up a bow and arrow since I was a kid. I had no idea that it was the start of my healing journey, that it would lead to the closest friendships I’ve ever had.

Blaze gave me the chance to do sports when I thought I couldn’t do sports anymore. Seeing the other vets there with different challenges, they were all able to overcome and adapt and compete. It encouraged me to be more resourceful and to try the things I thought I could never do again. But more than that, Blaze connected me to a community of veterans who had also suffered, who knew what I was going through. The activities helped me physically, but they really saved me mentally. And it’s my mission to make sure that we can help other vets find their joy in life, too.