On a nighttime aerial missions in the valleys of Afghanistan, Juan Carlos Hernandez’s aircraft was hit with a rocket-propelled grenade which injured his lower right leg. The injury was so severe it required a below-the-knee amputation. Juan didn’t let that stop him and resolved himself to not only quickly adapt his prosthesis but also to face the challenge of learning how ride a bike again.
“Riding my bicycle has dramatically helped me with my walking and my quick recovery; it has not only helped me physically but also mentally,” he says. Through Ride2Recovery, an organization that raises money to support spinning recovery labs and outdoor cycling programs, he has found a community of veterans and others in similar situations.
This week, Hernandez is teaming up with fourteen other injured veterans for a unique adventure. Monday, the group of servicemen and women hit the trails for the Warrior 100k bike ride with President George W. Bush as part of his Social Enterprise Initiative.
Through this foundation, President Bush strives to highlight the bravery and strength of those wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan. The three day Warrior 100k event consists of a 100 kilometer mountain bike ride where President Bush will ride with the veterans through the Big Bend in the deserts of Texas. It is an effort to honor America’s heroes and highlight the incredible work of military support organizations that find innovative ways to improve their lives.
We wish the rider’s luck and perseverance! Initiatives like these are wonderful spotlights on the disabled community’s ability to overcome tough circumstances.
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