Residual Forces

The other night Chad the Elder of the Fraters emailed a few bloggers about a true American hero and symbol of hope and inspiration for us all. (Chad’s post can be found here)

The man has probably done more to inspire and motivate people after the tragic loss of both his legs than 99% of Americans. He’s recovered from the injuries, helped bring hope to those that have followed him, and is now getting ready for the next courageous journey — back home.

Army Sgt. Neil Duncan, from Maple Grove, MN, was severely injured in Afghanistan on December 5, 2005 when an improvised explosive device (IED) ripped through his Humvee. Neil was seriously wounded as a result of the explosion. He lost both of his legs, shattered his jaw, broke his elbow and hand, and sustained multiple shrapnel wounds. Within a week of the attack, Neil was transferred to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC where he began the long road of recovery.

Neil went through more than 20 surgeries, rigorous physical and occupational therapy along with dental reconstruction over the last 14 months at Walter Reed. However, through his mental/physical strength and determination, Neil has overcome this huge hurdle as he is now able to do things he was once able to enjoy.

Neil led a very independent and active lifestyle prior to being wounded so his goal is to regain that lifestyle– just in a new way! Learning to walk using his prosthetic legs, Neil took his first steps on February 6, 2006, just two months after the explosion. He participated in Soldier Ride where he hand cycled from Long Island to Washington, DC (over 500 miles!). Neil has even re-learned to do the things he loves - running and skiing. He has been a huge inspiration to those who love him as well as other wounded soldiers recovering at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He motivates them and shows them that they can do whatever they want to do if they just put their mind into it.

You can learn more about Neil Duncan here. This is a benefit blog set up to help him.

THE BENEFIT
The benefit is scheduled for Saturday, April 21, 2007 from 2-6 p.m. at the American Legion in Osseo, Minnesota. It will be open to the public and seeks to raise money to help Neil make the difficult adjustments that lie ahead, such as buying a house and adapting it to his specific needs. The event is being organized primarily by Neil’s parents, sister, and brother-in-law who are actively seeking contributions from the public as well as from private organizations who want to be a part of this noble cause.

Folks please clear you calendars or send him a kind donation.

Silent auction and cash donations can be mailed to either:
Neil Duncan Benefit
14480 Sumter Avenue
Savage, MN
55378

Neil Duncan Benefit
8986 Comstock Lane N
Maple Grove, MN
55311

There’s also a PayPal Link on the benefit blog. Please give what you can.

Duncan sacrificed for us, now it’s our turn.