"I was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I grew up on a small 10-acre farm and was raised primarily by my grandmother, Hazel Corfield, and my uncle, Boyd Corfield. I always aspired to join the service since before I can remember. I come from a long line of military service on my grandmother Hazel’s side. All her sons served, as well as her husband. Many of my fellow cousins also served in the various branches. I immediately joined the U.S. Army after graduation. I served on active duty for about seven years and was honorably discharged. I served time at the start of Operation Enduring Freedom. I idolized the concept of a Non-Commissioned Officer.

Once I was a veteran I started developing symptoms of PTSD. I kept ignoring it for nineteen years, stuffing my feelings and symptoms, before it couldn’t be contained any longer. I ended up homeless, and in crisis. After several diagnoses, I have received electroconvulsive therapy for over a year and ketamine for about another six months. These treatments were in addition to the mental health medicines I was taking. During the time I was receiving therapy treatments, I was diagnosed with another underlying mental health condition…borderline personality disorder. I also found out my PTSD was caused by Moral Injury. The good news is I have a firm understanding of my conditions and the tools used to treat them.

I always believed in God, but until six months ago, I didn’t know him as Father, as I do now. That’s when my life really started changing. Now I have the personal motivational spirit to help others, when I couldn’t even help myself before. I am becoming more active in ministry and veteran outreaches. This change is strictly due to the Father’s will, so I will continue to trust him and follow his leadership."