By Meredith Iler | Founder, Helping a Hero Home Program
Sept. 11, 2001, is one of the darkest days in American history.
The brutal attacks claimed thousands of innocent lives and left wounds that even time cannot heal. While these events revealed the worst in humanity, the aftermath also showed the best. In the days, weeks and years that followed, countless Americans demonstrated resilience, compassion and bravery.
In response to the attacks, thousands of patriots answered the call to serve, enlisting in the military to defend our nation, values and freedom. Their sacrifices echo those of the 9/11 victims and their families, and our gratitude toward them is immeasurable. Yet, no amount of thanks can ever fully repay the debt we owe these brave men and women.
Many service members have made the ultimate sacrifice, while others have returned home with visible and invisible scars. Some have lost limbs, sight or hearing, and others struggle with mental health challenges.
Even daily tasks like taking a shower can become dangerous and challenging for these heroes, making adapted homes essential for living a safe and fulfilling life after their service and sacrifice.
Marine Staff Sgt. Jose Rivera’s story is a testament to resilience and dedication. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Rivera was working in the Twin Towers on Sept. 11. He left for the subway with his cousin that morning but returned home after forgetting his badge while his cousin continued. When Rivera arrived at the towers, falling debris knocked him unconscious, and he was taken to the hospital. Tragically, his cousin did not survive. This loss inspired Rivera to join the Marines, determined to protect America from those who carried out the attack.
Rivera enlisted in October 2003 and served multiple tours in the Middle East and Japan. During a patrol in Iraq, his unit was impacted by the ripple effect of an improvised explosive device blast, resulting in severe injuries to his shoulder and ankle, requiring 17 surgeries.
After years of trying to save his leg, he ultimately underwent an amputation. Rivera’s spirit, however, remains unbroken, and he continues to live with purpose and determination.
In March of this year, Rivera received a custom-adapted home from Helping a Hero. This national charity builds specially adapted homes for wounded service members. These homes — custom-designed based on the veteran’s needs — include wider doorways, roll-in showers and flush thresholds. They provide veterans with the independence they need to live fulfilling lives. For Rivera, this home offers a place to live and a sanctuary where he can engage fully in daily activities and be the husband and father he strives to be.
Helping a Hero is among the top national organizations supporting wounded heroes through adapted homes. Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, launched the 100 Homes Challenge and committed to pay 25% of the cost of 100 homes.
By partnering with builders, suppliers and Bass Pro Shops, Helping a Hero provides vital services and resources to veterans and their families. In addition to building homes, the organization offers support programs, including marriage and caregiver retreats, recreational activities and emergency grants.
Our nation’s heroes have sacrificed so much to defend our freedom, and we must ensure they receive the support they need to thrive. Helping a Hero stands alongside these brave men and women, offering the adapted homes and services they need to rebuild their lives.
Sept. 11 is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of our veterans and their families. It is an opportunity for us to come together as a community to honor their service and show our gratitude for their sacrifices.
The effect of these specially adapted homes is profound. For many wounded heroes, returning home is not a transition but a journey filled with obstacles. Homes equipped with state-of-the-art amenities tailored to each hero’s unique needs provide a safe space for healing and independence. These open-concept floor plans are more than just architectural choices; they represent a commitment to giving our veterans control over their lives and the freedom they fought to protect.
As we remember Sept. 11, let us honor those we lost and celebrate the courage of our veterans who served and were injured. By supporting organizations like Helping a Hero, we ensure that the sacrifices of our heroes are met with the gratitude and support they deserve. Let us unite as a nation in remembrance and action to show our commitment to those who have given so much.
If you know a wounded warrior injured post 9-11 who needs an adapted home, please go to HelpingaHero.org and complete our Nominate a Hero form.
Editor’s note: Meredith Iler is the founder of the Helping a Hero Home Program. Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.
