Patrick grew up in rural northern Indiana where he excelled in academics as well as participated in wrestling and football in high school. Shortly after graduating, he joined the Army Reserves and underwent basic training at Fort Benning, followed by job training (AIT) at Fort Bragg’s JFK Special Warfare School. He graduated in the top 10% of his class and was assigned to a Civil Affairs Battalion. After many optional training courses, several different assignments and deployments, he faced a medical review board. After months in limbo at the medical holding detachment at Fort Bragg, he knew he needed a change.
That change came in the way of reuniting with his four legged friend Amayah, a black Lab who he got as a puppy before joining the military. It was her love for life and need for exercise that helped Patrick pull himself out of a slump by returning to an active lifestyle. In the following months, they shared every moment of life and slowly but surely Patrick was able to show the doctors that a medical review board was unnecessary.
After his honorable discharge following a 6 year career of service, Patrick attempted to readjust to the civilian world. He moved to several different states and held various types of jobs trying to find something that fit like the Army did. His search continues, but after his long struggle with the process of VA disability claims he has vowed to help others facing similar situations.
Patrick is currently a full time student working to finish his degree in criminal justice. He now has a second Labrador, Brittany, and the three of them can be seen doing anything and everything outdoors. Brittany joined Patrick in his first adventure race in May of 2010 where they placed 2nd in the solo male division. Both Brittany and Amayah joined Patrick in a fun-filled local event called a ‘STooPiD Run’ trail race where they won their division.
His plans for the future include racing with the ImONPoint.org foundation in order to help raise awareness for wounded vets, completing his degree, and finding a fulfilling job where he is able to further help fellow veterans.
