At first when I was contacted by MTV I really did not know what to expect from the whole documentary. I thought that my story would not be appealing to viewers as I only attend school, volunteer at the VA and take care of my child. I didn’t know how much of an impact my experience would make on individuals who listened.
How I felt meeting Kanye West...
Every day I think about my experience meeting Kanye West, and I still smile about the situation because it was much unexpected. I never thought that I would meet Kanye West, as I remember watching him on TV and listening to his music while on convoys in Iraq. Kanye was very understanding; he listened to my situation and helped me to a better life that I sincerely appreciate very much. Working with MTV and Sway was a great experience as they were very courteous and professional.
Waiting for the show to air...
Right now I am very nervous, anxious, and excited about the release of the show. I really don’t know what to expect because I really don’t know what people will think. I assume there will be positive and negative reactions to the show, as everyone has their own opinion and outlooks on the military. I don’t want people to think that I am not affected by the war because my civilian situation isn’t severe as Tyran and Lorenzo, because believe me I am affected ,but I try to not let it affect my every day life. If anything I am affected by Tyran and Lorenzo’s story because they are strong individuals and I am very glad they received the help. I am though expecting more of a positive outcome overall.
I would really like people to take away from the show that every veteran has their unique and own situation and not every experience and outlook will be the same. I want people to know that even though I went through my experience I try to take every negative aspect and turn it into a positive. One of the ways I turned it into a positive was by being proactive when I got out the military and did everything I could to have a better future. I tried to be more involved with veterans and help veterans with the transition to civilian life. My message is to let everyone know that not all veterans get out the military and suffer; there are success stories to being a veteran. Believe me it is not easy but it takes a strong individual to press through obstacles that come between your way of success.
Trust me I don’t know it all and I am not to the point of success where I want to be in life, but I surround myself with positive people that are there to help and motivate me every time I feel like giving up.
I hope that my experience helps and motivates veterans that watch the show, also service members who are still serving our country. If they decide one day to leave the military and start a new career there is hope out there. There is life after the military you just need to use every tool you are given in and outside the military to your best advantage.