Episode Details

There are many adversities we face in life. Some of outward-facing while many are scars we carry on the insides of our hearts. Today's guest can speak to both.

Jonathan Lopez is an Army Infantry veteran + member of Operation Enduring Warrior (OEW). OEW is a veteran-founded non‐profit whose mission is to honor, empower, and motivate our nation's wounded military and law enforcement veterans through physical, mental and emotional rehabilitation.

Jonathan joins us for a raw, emotional and honest conversation about serving our country, learning how to accept unexpected circumstances + challenges in life and inspiring others to do the same.

(Thank you to Live Inspired community member Martina for sharing her special relationship Jonathan, his connection her late son Thomas + the work OEW is doing in our communities. Share your guest recommendations with us at podcast@johnolearyinspires.com)

SHOW NOTES:

• According to the 2019 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, more than 16 United States veterans die by suicide every day.
• At 17 years old, Jonathan joined the Army seeking brotherhood + community, something that was lacking in his life.
• During Special Forces Training, Jonathan realized the community he always sought was already in the barracks + quit.
• Days later, Jonathan was involved with a head-on motorcycle accident that resulted in 17 fractures in his left leg, broke every rib on his left side + the amputation of his left arm.
• Finding peace: "Not too long ago, I let go. It was one of the most liberating things."
• Jonathan's focus + determination on rehabilitating his leg helped him cope with the loss of his arm.
• Unleashing a monster: While rehabilitating his leg, Jonathan became addicted to opioids, which eventually led to a suicide attempt.
• "Figuring out how to do things with one hand is not that complicated. Mental rehabilitation is hard."
• Redemption: During induction to Operation Enduring Warrior's Masked Athlete Team, Jonathan's mentor Jeff Farmer presented an opportunity for redemption.
• "Face your obstacles, smile + get it over with."
• Jonathan attempted suicide not wanting his children to grow up with a "deadbeat father". Today, he's choosing to live because of his kids.
• Learn more about Operation Enduring Warrior here.

If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Other Live Inspired Podcast guests have shared about suicide prevention + awareness.

• Kevin Hines speaks of overcoming his "brain pain" + thriving in spite of mental illness on ep. 164.
• Dese'Rae Stage speaks about sharing stories of other suicide attempt survivors on ep. 156.
• Dennis Gillan discusses the loss of two brothers to suicide on ep. 46.

JONATHAN LOPEZ'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

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