When life knocks you down, the experiential value is in the physical, emotional and spiritual struggle to get back up. For retired U.S. Army Specialist Cody Nusbaum, getting up and taking that first step was an arduous journey that he, admittedly, could not do alone.
When he was just 19 years old, Cody was deemed unable to walk after miraculously surviving 11 gunshot wounds from an attack by Taliban fighters during his deployment in 2011. While in recovery at a hospital in San Antonio, Texas, Cody contracted E. coli, which only made matters worse.
The disease ate away at the head of his right femur and portions of his hip, subsequently forcing doctors to remove it. But it did not eat away at Cody’s spirit.
Through faith, determination and a strong support system from his family and fellow veterans, Cody was able to take his first step 15 months after his injury.
With his health improving, the blessings continued to pour in for Cody. In April 2014, Operation FINALLY HOME and a series of building partners extended a token of gratitude to Cody for his service with the gift of a custom, mortgage-free home in New Braunfels, Texas. Two years later, Cody is at peace and full of life.
“This home has given me the space I need,” said Cody. “Everything seems to be a lot easier and not so stressful. Not having to worry about a mortgage — or even taxes because of the Texas property tax exemptions for veterans — is a major weight lifted. I couldn’t have asked for a greater gift.”
Since moving into his home, Cody has been eager to start his own family. He and his fiancé are excitedly expecting their first child in the coming months.
“It’s pretty awesome. I’m kind of nervous because it’s a new life that I have to care for, but I cannot wait to become a father and welcome our baby into the world,” Cody proclaimed.
In his downtime, Cody enjoys playing golf as a way to relax. He continues to stay in touch with Operation FINALLY HOME’s Founder and President, Dan Wallrath. The two often go golfing when their schedules align.
Today, Cody is now able to be on his feet all day without support, and he is preparing to return to work. After the Nusbaums welcome their child, Cody plans to go back to school for gunsmithing, a career he can do from home that is not too taxing on the body.
For other veterans in a similar situation, Cody says, “You’re in control of your own situation. Giving up is easy. Anything worth having is worth fighting for.”
Building Homes, Rebuilding Lives
Cody wants supporters of Operation FINALLY HOME to know that he is blessed for the gift they have given him.
“Thank you. You are doing such a good thing for all veterans. There are no words to describe what you are doing, but just know that it is a major burden you are lifting.”
For more information on Operation FINALLY HOME and to make a donation to help more veterans like Cody continue on their healing journeys, visit operationfinallyhome.org/loghome.
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Dutch Oven
