Former Marine Needing Assistance

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. My name is Clark and I am a former Marine. I served with 1st Marine Division (Camp Horno) as well as 4th LAR (Las Flores) from 92 to 2000 (reserves 96-2000) Since 1997 I have been in the Fitness Industry, as well as teaching self defense seminars & classes. Along side this I competed in Mixed Martial Arts as well as earned my Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. When Covid hit my industry completely shut down, and I was living in Maryland. I seized the opportunity (so I thought) to move out to Montana, register with the VA (which I had never done) and address several injuries I had sustained over my life. All you Devil Dogs reading this know we don’t go to the Battalion Aid Station or Medical unless absolutely forced. That way of thinking and behaving led to a life time of poor decisions as it relates to injuries.

When I arrived I registered with the VA and got on the VA housing list (HUD/VASH), after 6 months I received housing. I then got all new MRI’s, CT Scans and other testings to create a plan with my VA Dr. Things were much worse than even I imagined, my dock was shocked I was able to function physically on any level. I filed my claim in November 2020 with my local Veteran Service Officer and provided documentation supporting my claims, including witness letters.

Between February 2021 and May 2022 I completed 9 surgeries, and roughly 270 individual appointments. About 25% of appointments are via tele-health requiring Wi-Fi. I still have 3 surgeries to complete so I can get back into the game.

I leverage all resources including 2 food banks, soup kitchens, and I get a voucher of $200 per month for food products. In February of 2022 I also started working with Senator Tester on my case due to the nasty oppression and tactics by the VA, constantly holding things up and at 1 point completely shutting my services off due to an administration error. In addition the State has provided me with 5.5 hours per week of in-home health care to assist me physically.

With all this I am coming up short. If I can not keep things going on my end and play by the VA rules I can not continue to get assistance. I have sold all personal belongings and used all my savings. I have had a few friends help me out from time to time as well. At this point I need to raise $2750 to bridge the gap over the next 6-8 months until the VA begins my disability payments. Here is the budget for the monies.

Vehicle Registration - 408

Vehicle Insurance - 6 months at 170 = 1020

Wi-Fi - 6 months at 90 = 540

Supplies - Laundry, TP, paper towels, 6 months at 50 = 300

Gas - 6 months at 80 = 480

If you would like any back up documentation please reach out.