Moving On

As my last post about the Wounded Warriors (this time around, anyway), I want to write about the future. Most of these men and women will be getting out of the marines as they adjust to their varying disabilities. The Wounded Warrior program offers multitudes of classes for these survivors to help them deal with the transition to 'normal' life. Some will get jobs, some will be retired due to their disabilities, and some will thrive.

Introducing Paul de Gelder. He is an Australian Navy Clearance Diver (like our SEALs) who was attacked by a shark on a training exercise. The shark got his right hand and most of his right leg. This story was crazy enough, but then I learned that he STILL DIVES WITH THE NAVY! I wouldn't get back in the ocean. Let's be honest, I wouldn't get back in the pool after that.

Anyway, Paul is a little crazy, which is probably why I like him. He is also driven. He has a book coming out about his life, which was interesting waaaay before the shark attack. He has since modeled bathing suits and underwear (with missing limbs), helped in cleaning up debris in the ocean (by diving), become a motivational speaker at schools and communities, and is an advocate for SHARKS.

Many of the Wounded Warriors will continue on to bigger and better things. I wish them all the best and hope they reach their dreams.

Paul's story:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiHGPH2gC6A&feature=related

Paul's website with book info:
http://pauldegelder.com/

WARNING - this video has extremely graphic photos of the injuries. It is worth watching if you don't faint.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzbXrD1Z_8I&feature=related