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Soldiers often pay a terrible price for American freedom. Most of us have no idea how deep the wounds go.
Travis Mills paid the price, and his family too. Now they’re using a second chance at life to pay it forward.
I have a soft spot for military veterans, especially for those who’ve made a terrible sacrifice for American freedom, like Travis Mills. I’ve written about this before, when I profiled Daryl Mackin and his organization … Inspire Me – A Soldier’s Child.
When I learned about Travis Mills, I knew right away there was a place for him on Eye of the Beholder.
I first saw Travis and his wife Kelsey on the NBC Game Show called, The Wall.
My wife and I truly enjoy this show. Not only for the roller coaster ride of emotions as people see huge money prizes come and go, but we love that they recruit contestants with great background stories, like Travis Mills, the Recalibrated Veteran.
Travis and Kelsey played a great game, making a final decision at the end worth over $250,000. I can’t think of a more deserving couple to win such a fantastic prize. Their story of overcoming is truly amazing, but what they are doing now with life’s second chance defines the word, inspiring.
United States Army Staff Sergeant (Ret.) Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne suffered a horrific IED blast on April 10, 2012 during a routine patrol on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan. He lost portions of all four of his limbs. One of only five quadruple amputees from the Iraq/Afghanistan war to survive such a devastating injury, Travis took the mantra to heart, Never Give Up. Never Quit.
He endured a grueling 19-month recovery with Kelsey, and their daughter, Chloe, at his side. After his recovery, Travis attended an adaptive sports camp in Colorado and realized a need. Veterans and their families need a place where they can relax, reconnect, and find strength. Travis and Kelsey acted on this vision and founded the Travis Mills Foundation Veterans Retreat in September 2013.
The nonprofit organization was formed to benefit and assist post-911 veterans who have been injured in active duty, or as a result of their service to our nation. The Travis Mills Foundation provides veterans and their families an all-inclusive, all-expenses-paid, barrier-free experience where they can participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy some much-needed rest and relaxation in the great outdoors of Maine.
More than 850 families have enjoyed the retreat. Maine is a fantastic choice for an experience like this. The abundance of lakes, wildlife, and fresh air provide a peaceful, tranquil environment. I’ve had the opportunity to enjoy the Maine outdoors myself, spending the summer of 2021 there during my RV Life days. This is a special place in the USA, for veterans and civilians alike.
I hope you are inspired by Travis and Kelsey’s story. I sure am. I’d like to encourage you to explore the Travis Mills Web site and learn about the Travis Mills Foundation.
If you are as moved as I am, think about signing-up for their newsletter and maybe consider a donation.
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