Steve suffered severe injuries including spinal and internal injuries as well as traumatic brain injury when his outpost in Afghanistan was destroyed by a suicide bomber. After enduring two major surgeries and over six months recovering in the hospital, Steve struggled with both physical and emotional pain including depression upon returning home. Through Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), Steve has been able to connect with other veterans dealing with similar issues and testify before the Senate on veterans' needs. Steve is now pursuing a political science degree through WWP's educational program and continues to advocate for other injured warriors.