Seven years ago today, my family and I found out that my brother, Sgt. Jonathan D. Gardner, was seriously injured by a roadside bomb, (explosively formed penetrator - EFP), while on a mission in Kuwait.
The EFP went through the bottom of his seat and put a softball size hole in his upper thigh. The doctors said that if the bomb had entered the Humvee an inch to the right, he would have lost his leg and an inch to the left, his life, because of a main artery.
Throughout this journey, Jon has had the best attitude, and, if you ask him, he will tell you that it was all a blessing. He continues to be an inspiration even though his story has never been told. I wanted to let the world know so that they can celebrate his "Alive" day with me and my family.
Jon now lives in Atlanta along with his wife Amy. They are expecting their first baby in May. He works for the Gwinnett County Police Department.
Happy Alive Day, bro! We love you so much and we will never stop celebrating you!
Annie Gardner