I always knew I wanted to help others, but I didn’t know how.” Sometimes all you can do is the next right thing. However, when anxiety, depression, or any other external forces are high, it can be hard to take the step. It can inhibit any sort of connection, with others or yourself. It may put you in a place where you need more things to help you cope with what is actually going on inside. This week's guest, SGT Matthew Pennington has lived through some hellish times and today, he shares his story of redemption. I didn’t look at it, my friend told me it was gone.” After enlisting in the Army pre-9/11, young Matthew Pennington was ready for a change. Having faced a tough childhood and the recent death of his grandmother, Pennington took the family place in the military. After two tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and some time back at home, Matthew took his third and final tour. While finding a new post in what would become his final stay, Matthew was leading a convoy through a narrow road in a small city. As he turned the corner, the worst hit. I believe there is an inherent divine purpose for all of us.” After losing his leg in the war, Matthew’s homecoming was filled with ups and downs over the first few years back. He went from a year of celebrity status in the hospital to a few years of medication, alcohol, and pain. Matthew’s injuries consisted of his lost left leg, injured right leg, and a brain injury. All were noticed right away except for the brain injury. Years after his injury, as depression and alcohol became more involved in Matthew’s day-to-day, his shot at acting in a movie portraying an Army vet became his first form of therapy. Staring in ‘A Marine’s Guide to Fishing’ was life changing for Matthew. The WHY / / Where I’m going I do the best I can do while I’m there. Enjoy Matthew’s journey as he recalls losing his leg while serving overseas, starring in a movie, and starting a non-profit! Connect with Matthew: Email Facebook
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