My name is Regino Hernandez, and for most of my life, I dedicated myself to serving others.

I proudly served six years in the United States Marine Corps, followed by nineteen years in the Air National Guard. Throughout my military career, I deployed to contingency zones, led Airmen as a First Sergeant, and always believed that taking care of others came before taking care of myself.

After retiring from military service, I continued that commitment by working for Boeing, volunteering with organizations like Special Olympics, Big Brothers Big Sisters, NAMI, and supporting military families whenever I could.

Today, I find myself facing the hardest battle of my life.

For years, I quietly lived with the invisible wounds of military service and childhood trauma. PTSD, anxiety, and depression slowly took hold, affecting every part of my life. Like many veterans, I convinced myself I could handle it alone. Eventually, I reached a point where I couldn't.

I am currently receiving intensive mental health treatment and participating in trauma therapy. This treatment has been life-changing, but it has also required me to take medical leave from work. My monthly income has been reduced by more than half, creating financial hardship while I focus on healing.

Asking for help is one of the hardest things I've ever had to do.

Anyone who has served understands that we're often the ones people call when they need help—not the ones asking for it ourselves. But healing sometimes requires accepting support from others.

Your donation will help cover essential living expenses while I continue treatment, including:

Housing and utilities

Groceries

Transportation to medical appointments

Basic monthly expenses while my income is reduced.

My goal isn't simply to survive this chapter—it's to rebuild my life.

I'm committed to continuing treatment, returning to work when I'm medically able, completing my engineering education, and continuing to serve others the way I always have.

One lesson I've learned is this:

For most of my life, I survived by being useful. I became a Marine, an Airman, a First Sergeant, a leader, a volunteer, and a problem solver. What I'm learning now is who I am when I'm not taking care of everyone else.

If you're able to contribute, no matter the amount, I am deeply grateful. If you cannot donate, sharing my story is just as meaningful.

Thank you for believing that healing is possible and for helping me take the next step forward.

With gratitude,

Regino Hernandez