Juan was injured in Afghanistan late last year and although his recovery will be a very long one, he has already come a long way. His journey began when he encountered an IED that, among other injuries, took both of his legs and his right arm. We learned of him when visiting the hospital last Halloween and at that time he was in the ICU. We talked to his family who were so very appreciative that they would hear from supporters across the country.

Juan's first challenge was to overcome infections and the tremendous pain associated with amputations. His family reported that his attitude throughout it all was amazing...he tackled each new challenge with all the strength he could muster. Once he stabilized, he was moved to his first rehab facility and approached it with a "get it done" attitude.

The rehab process aims to solidify the body's core and perfect its balance. Then prosthetics are added in stages. They have to be fitted and re-fitted as the wounded limbs change. At first he was given short prosthetics for his legs to allow him to adjust to being upright again after so many months. As balance and coordination return, the prosthetics are lengthened.

His family recently gave us an update saying,

"Juan is facing surgery in two months because he is hearing impaired. There is no sign of improvement unless the surgery is done. His right ear is worse than the left, and the left continues to have a perforation. His walking is a breeze now. He is walking independently between the parallel bars. Just a few more days and he will be walking the track. He is amazing the medical team with his determination and great attitude. The miracle continues. Thank you for your prayers and support."

When Juan is discharged he wants to return to his hometown to be near his 8-year-old daughter who lives with his ex-wife and start a business painting and restoring cars. In the meantime, besides the intense work in rehab, he has been able to do some fun things. Juan is looking forward to a surfing trip, training to participate in the Marine Corps Marathon and relearning to play the guitar. He went to a concert, was honored at a Memorial Day celebration in his hometown during a 30 day recuperative leave and attended homecoming when his fellow 3/5 Marines returned from Afghanistan. Many of them thought they'd never see him again and it was a very emotional scene.

View Juan's recovery page here.

If you would like to write to Juan, send your cards and letters to the address below:

LCpl. Juan 3/5 Kilo
c/o Operation PAL
PO Box 670328
Marietta, GA 30066