For Army Specialist Michael S. Monthervil, who was injured in Afghanistan in 2014, having space to move around and be comfortable at home is crucial to his recovery. While doing training exercises, SPC Monthervil sustained a spinal cord injury after falling on his neck, resulting in the loss of use of his legs. After going through surgery and rehabilitation, he has focused on recovery and has found ways to stay active, regaining movement in his arms and dexterity in his hands. However, his current home is not wheelchair accessible, making it difficult for him to focus on and prioritize his recovery.
Through the support of Homes For Our Troops, SPC Monthervil will be the recipient of a new, specially adapted custom home for him and his family in San Antonio, Florida. Since 2018, Wayfair has partnered with Homes For Our Troops to furnish homes granted to injured Veterans and is honored to be supporting SPC Monthervil’s home this year. Homes For Our Troops is a nonprofit organization that builds and donates specially adapted custom homes nationwide for severely injured post-9/11 Veterans, to enable them to rebuild their lives.
“It would mean everything to me just to have a home - to have somewhere to grow, have a family and build something special,” shared SPC Monthervil. “I can have my independence back and do everything myself whether it's taking a shower, going to sleep, waking up, or cooking - it’s the little stuff that counts.”
Most Homes For Our Troops Veterans have sustained injuries including multiple limb amputations, partial or full paralysis, and/or severe traumatic brain injury. Providing an accessible home helps restore some of the freedom and independence that they’ve sacrificed while also enabling them to focus their energy on family, recovery, and rebuilding their lives.
Monthervil’s home is expected to be completed by early 2023 and Wayfair has partnered with Homes For Our Troops to fully furnish and decorate his house with accessible-friendly products such as low pile rugs, pedestal dining table, firm sofa for added support, plus extra clearance around furniture all provide a more wheelchair-friendly and comfortable space. All of these considerations will help him prioritize his recovery and re-engage with physical therapy and everyday tasks.
Since their founding, Homes For Our Troops has built over 345 homes for severely injured Veterans like SPC Monthervil, with 68 projects currently underway across the country. Over the last few years, Wayfair has fully furnished and decorated homes for six Homes For Our Troops Veterans and their families. Below are a few of their stories.
Learn more about Wayfair’s partnership with Homes For Our Troops and donate at checkout to support their work.