Traumatic Brain Injury: Personal Journeys
Chuck Clamon
During his third tour in Iraq, Sgt. 1st Class Chuck Clamon’s convoy was ambushed outside of Sadr City. Chuck and his wife, Sandra, discuss some of the physical challenges and family concerns relating to TBI.
"... being a Platoon Sergeant, I just had to fight through it all, because if my guys were going under the wire, I was going with them."
Matthew James
The story of Communications Specialist Matt James is one of inner strength and the ability to beat the odds. Matt and his wife, Dawn, discuss the challenges of family life following a traumatic brain injury.
“It’s entirely too easy to get too down, and not want to work on the things to get you back to where you need to be…”
Michael Welsh
While leading his team in Afghanistan, SGM Mike Welsh was severely wounded. Mike shares the story of his career choices, his recovery, and the long-term effects of his TBI. For a caregiver's perspective, watch his wife
Susan's story.
“You gotta do your part and it’s hard. You gotta just reach inside and be the Soldier or Marine that you are, and go forward.”
Ted Wade
While deployed in Iraq in 2004, Ted Wade suffered multiple life-threatening wounds, including a head injury that would change his life forever. His wife, Sara, discusses the sacrifices and rewards of caring for her husband. Ted and Sara tell a story of love and perseverance. For a caregiver's perspective, watch his wife
Sarah's story.
“… it’s very important early on to be realistic about what you’re facing. But also, find some hope in that reality. … don’t give up hope…”
Scott Lilley
SSgt Scott Lilley and his parents, Frank and Jolene, discuss the brain injury Scott suffered in Iraq 2007, and describe the power of positive thinking in Scott’s recovery.
“There’s different reasons why I’m here, and I’m glad to be here. I think I have a lot in the future, so I’m looking forward to it.”
Caregiver Journeys
Allison Vetzel
In 2009, Chris Vetzel was injured while serving in Iraq. Chris discusses the denial that he experienced before he was diagnosed with TBI. He and Allison share how they learned to identify, understand, and manage the effects of his injury. Chris acknowledges that the love and support of his family are what keeps him going.
“I am proudest of my husband for being the loving man he is and giving everything for our family everyday, despite his injuries.”
Sarah Wade
Six years after her husband, Ted, was injured, Sarah Wade offers her insight on the challenges of dealing with the long-term effects of TBI. Sarah discusses the spectrum of Ted’s recovery, from complete dependence to increasing independence. Sarah explains the importance of taking care of herself, in order to be there for her husband.
“In some ways, I had lost my own identity. I had been Ted’s caregiver for so long that that’s who I was…that’s what I did.”
Susan Welsh
After her husband, Mike, was wounded in 2006 Susan was faced with caring for her husband and two young sons. Her story is one of inner strength and the importance of family.
“For Mike, being a leader and having to ask for help….I do think that’s an issue. A lot of it is just losing the independence…”
Shannon Mormann
In 2009, during his third deployment, Cody Mormann was wounded when the truck he was driving was hit by an IED. His wife, Shannon, shares the challenges that she and Cody face during his recovery.
“Stay hopeful…talk to somebody as it comes…don’t hold it all in…”
Mary Dojcak
Between 2005 and 2008, Rick Rood was exposed to multiple blasts while deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. His caregiver, Mary, shares her experiences and explains the importance of laughter in caring for a loved one with TBI.
“As a caregiver I became part of his team in many ways. First off…being the one who cares the most.”