From Vision Loss to New Chapters: Mike’s Story

Mike Murphy, Army Veteran, served his country for ten years as an aircraft systems operator. His career was nothing short of amazing until a vehicle accident during his last deployment drastically changed his life. The accident damaged his optic nerves, causing him to lose about 80% of his sight and plunging him into a dark period of depression and anxiety.

Murphy recalls, "I was at the point in my career where I was ready to become an officer, but now I couldn't even walk around my house without assistance." The sudden loss of his vision was a severe blow, and he found himself grappling with thoughts of suicide, unsure of what the future held.

The Health and Wellness Catalyst

In his struggle, Murphy turned to his roots: health and fitness. As a lifelong athlete, he had always found solace in running and wrestling. He joined a recovery unit where he met Mark, who introduced him to the Warrior Games. "They told me a little bit about it. It was basically the military version of the Paralympics," Murphy explains. This introduction to adaptive sports became a beacon of hope, providing him with a new goal and a way to get moving again.

Through his journey of recovery, Murphy discovered Team Red, White & Blue. His squad leader, John Reyes, was the chapter coordinator for Colorado Springs and invited Murphy to join. "He hit me up and said, 'Hey, have you heard of Team RWB? We do CrossFit, hiking, running, tons of different volunteer events.' I was like, 'Oh, that's perfectly up my alley,'" Murphy recalls.

Mike Murphy and his service dog.

The Path: From Team RWB Member to Eagle Ambassador

Joining Team RWB was a turning point. The Colorado Springs chapter, one of the most active chapters, provided him with not just physical activities but a sense of camaraderie and purpose. "For me, it was not only just a way to get out and be physical, but you would also go and link up with similar and even new people, and they're all Veterans. Everybody's like-minded and kind of has the same goal to just live a healthy lifestyle," Murphy says. This sense of belonging and community was crucial in his recovery.

Murphy's involvement with Team RWB led him to participate in numerous competitions, including the Warrior Games and the Unbound 200 gravel race. "The military mindset personally, I'm a goal-oriented person, so having that goal was huge," he notes. His dedication and hard work paid off when he and his pilot won the overall tandem category for blind athletes in the Unbound 200.

The Team RWB Ambassador Program further enhanced Murphy's journey. The program supports Eagles in achieving significant fitness goals, providing funding and a network of like-minded individuals, giving them a platform to inspire other Veterans. "The best part about being an ambassador is the daily check-in. Not only are you all Veterans and are all part of the Team RWB crew, but the Ambassador group is a set of people that are seriously focusing on health and fitness," Murphy explains.

Mike Murphy and his service dog.

Mental Health = Physical Health

Murphy emphasizes the profound impact of physical activity on his mental health. "A lot of people look at adaptive sports or just health and wellness like a daily form of it makes you feel better. For me, honestly, it's the reason I'm alive," he shares. Whether it's a simple walk around the block or an intense training session, staying active is essential for his well-being.

Team RWB's focus on health and wellness, coupled with a strong sense of community, has given Murphy a renewed sense of purpose. "There's so many different aspects to it. I'm very blessed to be a part of this organization," he says. 

Murphy's story is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and the transformative impact of adaptive sports. Through Team RWB, he found a new lease on life, proving that even in the face of adversity, there is always a way forward.

Inspired? You can become an Eagle Ambassador, too!

Mike’s story is a reminder to us all to always strive to be the best version of yourself. If you think you have something to show to Eagle Nation and inspire Veterans, we want to hear from you. 

Apply now to become an Eagle Ambassador. Applications close on 31 AUG 24.

Follow Mike’s journey here.