Achievements Built Through Adversity
I am a highschool Graduate
It may not seem like much to some, but for me, it was everything—I became the first in my family to graduate high school. As the youngest of three boys, I struggled with reading and writing for most of my life. I was placed in remedial classes, always feeling behind, until something finally clicked my senior year.
I owe a huge debt of gratitude to my high school football coach, Chad Murray, who pushed me to the finish line when I needed it most. My journey wasn’t easy—I came from a dysfunctional upbringing, faced countless setbacks, and often felt like the odds were stacked against me.
But I proved that struggle isn’t a life sentence. If I could rise above my circumstances, so can you.
I am a Veteran
I am a proud U.S. Army veteran with over half a decade of service, specializing as a Combat Engineer and Combat Advisor.
Throughout my career, I earned the Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Air Assault Honor Graduate, and became a Ruck March Champion. I also served as an Explosive Ordnance Clearing Agent and rose to Staff Sergeant, mentoring and leading soldiers in high-risk operations.
After sustaining a spinal injury, I was medically retired in 2021, but my journey didn’t end there. The military taught me that failing is not trying, and trying is succeeding. Now, I use my experiences to inspire others, proving that resilience and discipline can overcome any obstacle
I am An Ironman
Have you ever chased a goal that seemed impossible—one where you had no clear path forward, but deep down, you knew that if you kept pushing, you'd find a way? That was the Ironman for me.
After undergoing L5-S1 spinal decompression surgery, I had to rebuild from the ground up. I needed a challenge that would force me to grow, to prove to myself that I was capable of more. I wanted to inspire myself, make myself proud, and reclaim my strength.
For a year and a half, I taught myself how to swim and cycle, transforming every aspect of my life. And in the end, I did what once seemed impossible—I completed my first full Ironman in Chattanooga, TN
I am a family man
Have you ever felt so compelled to act that nothing could stop you? That was the 523.9-mile ride for my Uncle Jimbo.
When I learned he was battling stage four liver cancer, I knew I couldn’t just stand by. I needed to do something—to show him, and myself, what resilience truly meant. So, I set out on a solo bike ride, covering 523.9 miles to raise money and awareness for his fight.
Every mile was a test of endurance, but nothing compared to what he was facing. Eighteen days after I finished the ride, Uncle Jimbo passed away. His fight, his strength, and his spirit live on, and I carry that lesson with me every day: when you believe in something, you give it everything you have—no excuses.
I am an Ultra marathoner
I completed a 5K every hour on the hour for 24 hours—a challenge that pushed me beyond my limits. The event, Pemberton 24, tested not just my endurance but my willpower. I placed 17th overall, but this was never about ranking.
At some point, my mind broke. Thoughts flooded in—"This is dumb. Just stop. You have nothing to prove." My feet felt like they were on fire, and I ran so long that even my arms were sore. But I kept going.
In that final lap, on the 24th hour, I proved to myself that when the mind and body fail, the soul takes over. If your why is deep enough, it will carry you to the finish line.
I am a College Graduate
I attended Lincoln College of Technology, where I earned a 4.0 GPA in the welding program. At first, I never imagined I would enjoy welding, but as I pushed myself to learn something completely new, I discovered a deep sense of fulfillment in mastering the craft.
I am an Author
Growing up, I was relentlessly bullied for my struggles with reading and writing. But instead of letting that define me, I turned my pain into purpose. I poured everything into something I believe will help others—my book, The University of Adversity.
I am incredibly proud of myself for sitting down, pushing past my doubts, and learning to express my story through the written word. What started as a personal project to help me process my own struggles became something much bigger. When I read it aloud to my wife and saw her moved to tears, I realized this book wasn’t just for me—it was for the little boy I once was, the one who never heard the words of encouragement he needed.
At 248 pages, this book is a testament to resilience, growth, and the power of perseverance. I hope it resonates with you, and I’m excited to bring it to life in an audiobook as well.
What the readers are saying
The insights about the author’s experience reminded me, it’s about the journey, not always the destination. I definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for personal development.
