Gy Sgt. Marcus was injured in Iraq - November 2006. He lost a leg in this incident. This is his second Purple Heart. He's already visiting the 'newcomers' to the hospital. (Photo is explained in the July, 2010 update)
Update: 9/1/2008 Marcus tells us he's had yet another surgery recently and is possibly looking at one more in the months to come. Rehab is going well and he's hoping to go back to work in 3 months. He and his family greatly appreciate the cards and letters of support and wants you to know they are still helping him deal with this. Thank you for continuing to support this Marine.
Update 06/06/2009 Marcus shares with us that he is doing well, is awaiting his medical board decision, and expects to be back to work after that. He has gotten a hand cycle and is going to participate in the Marine Corps Marathon this October in Washington, DC! Marcus loves the cards and letters of encouragement that are sent his way and looks forward to meeting some of the folks who send them. We are so excited we will be seeing him this fall, ooh-Rah Marcus! Let's cheer him on!!
Update 07/25/09 Marcus wrote "I'm still at the hospital and in the last phase of my recovery. I want to stay in the Marine Corps until my retirement. I really appreciate all the letters and cards I've received since I've been here, they've helped in more ways than anyone could ever know." Please keep Marcus in your prayers for a strong recovery and let him know how much we appreciate his service.
Update 9/11/09 Our volunteer Joyce recently spoke with Marcus, he told her that his wife isn't planning to run the race this year because she is pregnant. Marcus is thrilled and excited about the new baby on the way.
Update: November 16, 2009 A few of us were able to meet Marcus at the Marine Corps Marathon! We recognized him as he came across the finish line and called out his name. That's when this picture was snapped. He says he's doing great. He was tired but was sweet enough to talk to us and could not wait to "put on my leg and get comfortable". He also said that he is in the last stages of his recovery and wants you to know that "seeing that big envelope from OperationPAL always makes me smile."
Update: 7/14/2010 IT'S A BOY! The busy Dad finally had a minute to give us an update! Matthew was born in April and weighed in at 10lb. 2 oz. All are doing well.
Marcus will be re-enlisting in the next few months. He plans on doing the Marine Corps Marathon again on his cycle and he will add the New York Marathon to that list as well.
He says your cards really motivate him because it's encouraging to know that people care and know about the things he does. Congrats to Marcus and Janna - and welcome little Matthew!
Message Board
Date added to program: 2/4/2007
<< Back to list
