Veteran injured in Afghanistan gets home in Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Construction crews spent Saturday working on a home specially designed for a Jacksonville veteran injured while overseas.

Army Spc. Jarrod Addison was shot in the foot in 2011 during his first deployment in Afghanistan.

The gunshot severely damaged his left ankle.

He said he faces daily pain and discomfort.

“It’s definitely been a lot of hurdles to overcome – emotionally, financially, physically,” Addison said.

The veteran explained that the challenges are constant, especially getting around his apartment.

“I have step ups to get in my bathroom and of course to get in my shower. I have carpet and that makes it tough for my wheelchair,” Addison said.

Over the weekend, “Homes for Our Troops” kicked off the construction effort for a house that, once complete, will have 40 adaptations to accommodate Addison’s injury.

Dozens of local community members showed up at Saturday’s kickoff.

He said, “The outpouring of support has been unparalleled by anything I’ve ever personally experienced.”

According to Addison, this is a chance at a new life for his family.

“My wife is looking forward to me actually being able to contribute more because I’ll be able to help cook and clean a lot more easily,” he said.

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