San Antonio, Texas - In the heart of San Antonio, Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper, REALTORS® is home to a remarkable story of inspiration and unwavering support. Mater Sergeant Jeff Caroon and his wife, Holly Caroon, have shown the world the extraordinary power of determination and the boundless strength of love.
 

Jeff and Holly's journey began in the military, where they forged a deep connection that made them inseparable. Little did they know that their unbreakable bond would be tested to its limits when Jeff, a wounded warrior in the U.S. Air Force, faced the unimaginable loss of both his feet while on active duty. The year 2019 marked a turning point in their lives, as they grappled with the challenges that came with Jeff's life-altering injuries. However, it was during this trying time that they discovered the difficulties many disabled individuals face, and how to overcome unthinkable challenges. 

Their motto became "Your body achieves what your mind believes," a philosophy that would guide them through their path to recovery. A pivotal moment in Jeffs battle to overcome his injuries came when they sought support from The Center for the Intrepid at Fort Sam (CFI). The support groups and encouragement they found there became a lifeline for Jeff, helping him regain not only his physical strength but his mental fortitude. One fundamental recommendation from their support group was to explore adaptive sports. The group encouraged them to embark on excursions that would reshape their perspective on recovery. They learned that it was not just about physical therapy; it was about accepting their new reality and changing their mentality. 

In July 2022, Jeff and Holly embarked on an unforgettable journey to the Vail Veterans Summer Program. There, they participated in a wide range of activities, from horseback riding to rock-climbing, white-water rafting, and even zip-lining. It was a transformative experience that further fueled their determination.  

In February 2023, Jeff's journey took him to the U.S. Air Force Wounded Warrior trails/games, where he was recruited to join the Department of Defense Warrior Games Challenge on Team U.S. Air Force. This selection process is highly competitive, with only 40 athletes making the cut. The DoD Warrior Games Challenge in June 2023 brought together service members from various branches, and Jeff showcased his skills in various adaptive sports categories, earning accolades in archery, swimming, and track.  

Jeff placed in the following events during the June DoD Warrior Games and the September 2023 Invictus Games: 

COMPOUND: Seated Archery - Gold 

TEAM COMPOUND: Archery – Bronze 

100M SPRINT - 4.5A: Track (Male) - Bronze 

200M SPRINT - 4.5A: Track (Male) - Silver 

50M Freestyle – 4.5: Swimming (Male) - Silver 

100M Freestyle – 4.5: Swimming (Male) - Silver 

TEAM COMPOUND: Archery – Bronze 

4 Minute Endurance Row (Male) - Silver 

1 Minute Sprint Row (Male) - Bronze 

100M FREESTYLE - 4.5: Swimming (Male) - Silver 

The pinnacle of Jeff's journey was his invitation to represent Team USA at the 2023 International Invictus Games, a global event initiated by Prince Harry that brings together wounded warriors from all over the globe with the sole mission to empower these heroes. The selection process for Team USA is rigorous, with only 60 athletes making the cut. Despite falling ill and being unable to attend in person for the try-outs, his video submission alone was enough to secure his spot. This rare occurrence was a testament to the extraordinary strength of character that Jeff possesses. The 2023 International Invictus Games, with 21 nations represented, were held in Germany. 

Jeff Caroon's journey, marked by resilience, unwavering support, and the power of belief, serves as an inspiring example of what the human spirit can achieve. His accomplishments in adaptive sports and his role in representing the United States on the global stage demonstrate that, with determination and the support of loved ones, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges. Jeff's story is a testament to the power of the human spirit, the strength of love, and the ability to triumph over adversity. It's a story that inspires us all to believe in our limitless potential and to support those who face challenges on their journey to victory.