The end of the 2017 Warrior Games sparked the beginning of a new journey for Army veteran Spc. Michael Stephens.
"I ran into a problem coming off the Warrior Games, my motivation dropped big time and I had to take some time off from training. I just wasn't getting the fulfillment I needed out of my daily routine, "Stephens said. "I still get calls from all my buddies back home and many are feeling the same way, wanting support to keep going. When you come home, you're alone. You want that support, you want that team, and it's not there, it can be difficult. There's no reason for it."
Stephens says he's familiar with this feeling. After a year-long tour in Afghanistan, he sustained a brain injury causing him to lose his eyesight in both eyes. Retirement from the Army following his injuries was a low point for him both physically and mentally. Participating in the Warrior Games and other adaptive physical fitness activities provided a level of inspiration, fulfillment, and purpose; but it didn't last long after the completion of the competition. Now, despite his injury, the Montana native is quick to point out that he approaches life with a new perspective and no regrets.
This prompted a discussion for Stephens and his partner, Amanda Leibovitz, about helping those transitioning to civilian life. Regardless if someone sustained and injury or not, it may be possible to help those joining the civilian community to regain their sense of direction, comradery, and receive the continuous support that may have gone missing.
Together, Stephens and Leibovitz developed a 21-day virtual fitness challenge for implementation through social media. With doctors' approval, veterans and non-veterans can participate in fitness and nutrition challenges during a three-week program. Participants are connected with proven fitness programs, nutrition guides, meal planning tips, team support, and one-on-one mentoring designed specifically to help achieve their individual goals.
Leibovitz, a USA Paratriathlon Certified Coach, Certified Mental Performance Coach, and PhD student focusing her studies on the specific needs and goals of adaptive military athletes, says "it's a one stop shop for participants to succeed."
"We live this daily," says Stephens. "We're not simply spreading a message, but rather encouraging simple lifestyle changes to help people get back to their best self. This is a unique platform to provide the tools that empower participants to change their own lives. Whatever your motivation and regardless of your goals, current fitness level, or physical location, you have the opportunity to get back up, regain what you've lost, and be the best you," Leibovitz adds. "The skills we work to develop in these challenges will help participants improve their own quality of life, connect with others, sustain meaningful relationships, and feel more confident managing life's challenges."
Army veteran Staff Sgt. Eric Pardo is familiar with these challenges. He says he lived a very active and fit lifestyle but during a deployment to Afghanistan, this Airborne Medic suffered injuries including traumatic brain injury, a bulging disc, Post-Traumatic Stress Disease, and ankle and knee injuries.
"Doctors told me I would never run again. Adaptive reconditioning sports such as swimming, cycling, and archery opened up a whole new world to me. I've participated in the Games for the last two years but after returning home, that family and support system support is gone, that sense of belonging is no longer there and it's hard to stay motivated," Pardo said. "This challenge is exactly what I needed. Amanda and Stephen are amazing, their hearts mixed with their skillset makes them unstoppable."
"Amanda and I both agree that the clinics and camps offered to adaptive athletes are a great resource and can be extremely energizing and uplifting for those involved. However, many participants struggle once those short-term opportunities have ended and they're alone again. The system we've created provides a life-line for people to stay connected and continue to reap the ongoing benefits of health and wellness," Stephens said.
"Getting into a team environment comprised of military and civilian personnel, but under a military-style, family dynamic, can be the ticket to maintaining your health and the feeling of cohesiveness and belonging that we all thrive in. The goal is delivering the tools and support needed to turn a 21-day challenge into a 365-day lifestyle. At the end of the day, it's all about community and accountability," Stephens said. "I've seen the results of physical fitness activities and adaptive reconditioning sports and the impact they have on PTSD, self-esteem, and overall health. With this program, your battle buddy is right here. You may not have had this support since separating from the military or being injured, but the bottom line is this team wants you to succeed. You've got to stay solid and strong," he added.
But for Pardo, there's a stronger motivation at the heart of this challenge
"I'm doing this not only for me but my family. I want to be better and live better. They need me."
Those up for the challenge can contact Stephens or Leibovitz through Facebook at the information below. This unique pilot program is for men only, but women are welcome to join a parallel group on the same timeline. Week Zero begins August 14, 2017 and Day 1 is set for August 21.
Michael Stephens - https://www.facebook.com/retired12b
Amanda Leibovitz - https://www.facebook.com/amandaleibovitz
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