A Team LIVESTRONG Story: Michael
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The following is a Team LIVESTRONG story from Civilian Military Combine participant Michael R Rodriguez. There are many events you can take part in with Team LIVESTRONG. Go to our website to learn more about the run, walk, ride and tri events.
What is your name and where are you from?
Michael R Rodriguez, originally from Las Cruces NM, coming from Fort Bragg NC
In what event are you taking part?
Team LIVESTRONG at the Civilian Military Combine
How have you been affected by cancer?
My mother, aunt and two fellow comrades in arms have fought and are still fighting cancer. I have lost both Grandfathers and two aunts to cancer. I grew up with cancer being a household word in my family. I have seen how brutal it can be, but I have also seen the strength of the human spirit to fight it.
As a dual military family, I have 19 years and my wife with 15 years; I know what it is to fight for what you believe in. I have been dealing and fighting a traumatic brain injury I have received from several blasts and concussions. When SOCOM presented me with the chance to raise money for others as a Wounded Warrior, I jumped at it. The injuries I have sustained were through my own choosing. I chose to put myself in harms way by defending our country. But cancer is indiscriminate and ruthless. It afflicts anyone; no one chooses it. I know just like I have fought for our country for 19 years, cancer can also be fought. I hope I get the chance to deploy and fight for our country once again but if not, I will continue to fight like a Green Beret should, and I choose to fight cancer.
What made you become a part of Team LIVESTRONG?
An opportunity was presented to me by SOCOM Care Coalition to compete and raise money for cancer.
What is your one piece of advice you would give someone who is in a challenging situation?
I would share two quotes with them:
?It is better to die on your feet than live a lifetime on your knees? -Emiliano Zapata
?Never, never, never give up!? -Winston Churchill
Both of those quotes mean a lot to me, they mean ?Stay in the Fight?
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