ST JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. -- Marine Master Sargent John Hayes lost his freedom while fighting to protect ours. The father of three couldn't do much on his own after he lost both of his legs in Afghanistan. But his new home will change that.
"I can touch anything I need to. I can actually reach sinks. I can actually get to the toilet, tub or shower. Everything is set up for me to use," said Hayes.
Homes For Our Troops helped designed the house. And hundreds of local volunteers built it. Every one is specifically made to meet the needs of an injured veteran. "Wide open floor plans, single level homes, and that provides access to every room in the house for someone in a wheelchair," said Executive Director, Dawn Teixeira.
"We have a place with ample room to grow as a family," said Hayes.
This is 125th house Homes For Our Troops donated since 2005. The next home being built is for an injured veteran near Tampa. "This is our obligation. It's not a charity. It's our sense of duty," said Teixeira.
This will be the Hayes 10th and final move since he put on the uniform. "I can be a full time dad now. I don't have to get ready for a deployment," said Hayes. That gives this military family the freedom to finally enjoy each other, after so much sacrifice.
To find out how to help or donate to Homes For Our Troops
click here.
