After Marine Corporal Jesse Medina was catastrophically injured in Afghanistan, he persisted, persevered, and was determined to get back into a service line of work. Today, he serves his community as a patrol supervisor with the police department.
On Christmas Day in 2011, while many gathered to celebrate the joy of the holidays with family and friends, Jesse was fighting for his life. His world changed in an instant when an IED blast took his right leg above the knee and resulted in his finger amputation, elbow damage, and multiple shrapnel wounds.
Facing months of surgeries and a long and arduous road to recovery, Jesse naturally had doubts, tough new realities to consider, and difficult decisions to make about his future. But he would never have to travel the journey to healing on his own.
“From the day I arrived at the hospital, The Fund was there, ready to assist.”
Determined that Jesse would not spend the holidays alone, The Fund brought his family to his hospital bedside to offer care and support as he learned to navigate life as an amputee. In the early days of his injury, The Fund helped anticipate Jesse’s needs and was there to support a handicap van to transport to and from appointments and critical loss of income reimbursement for family members to remain by his side. Throughout the years, The Fund has remained faithful with grants for Jesse’s own adaptive vehicle, specialized athletic equipment, camaraderie and connection through Team Semper Fi, and ongoing support.
“Since separating from the Marines, The Fund and my case manager have kept continuous communication with me, showing The Fund truly cares about the veterans it supports.”
Jesse has reached new heights as a husband and father and in all aspects of his life. He continues to serve his community through his work with the police department, and we are honored to be a part of his life and journey.
“The Fund holds a dear spot in my heart … I am truly grateful for this organization.
