A Veteran
Denny Salisbury joined the Marines in 2006, at the age of 18. He served for just over a year when his battalion was maliciously attacked, leaving him severely injured. He was treated for the burns he sustained and the injuries he received. Upon returning to service, it was clear that, although his body had recovered, his mind had not. He suffered from extreme PTSD and was sent home. Upon returning home, Denny, who was attempting to get better, was faced with an even bigger mountain to climb—a prescription painkiller addiction.
The Lowest Point
In order to receive an escape from both the injuries in his mind and body, Denny was given painkillers, that led to an addiction. Denny was on over 10 painkillers at one time and had no way of breaking free. He eventually would end up in a coma from the medications. He eventually ended up on his hands and knees asking anyone and everyone for help. He knew that he had to overcome this addiction, or it would kill him. He even attempted to kill himself, but the gun did not fire, thus saving his life. Denny would eventually end up putting himself into a drug rehab program in downtown San Francisco. He was able to overcome his addiction and has been helping others ever since.
"A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles."
-Christopher Reeve
A Hero
Denny is truly a hero. After overcoming his addictions, he went on to raise over $15,000 dollars for a children’s foundation as he, and a fellow veteran, rode their bikes from Boston to Seattle. He has done so much for others. From sitting down with fellow veterans and helping them overcome PTSD, to helping other veterans overcome their mountains (both metaphorical and literal), or teaching wilderness survival as his day job. As he puts it, “I will drop everything I am doing to help people.”
Denny, thanks for letting us be a part of your expedition to Nepal.