My name is Joseph Wilson , a proud Iraq War veteran who gave everything for this country and now finds myself fighting a new battle just to survive and stay independent.
In Iraq, I lost my left arm serving our nation. I came home as an amputee with a determination to rebuild my life. For years I pushed through the pain, the phantom sensations, and the daily frustrations that come with missing an arm. I worked hard, adapted, and tried to live with dignity. But the cost of being a disabled veteran has finally caught up with me in ways I never expected.
I can no longer work due to my injury and the complications that followed. Without steady income, I lost my vehicle — the one thing that gave me freedom and access to medical care. Because I couldn’t afford to keep it on the road, I’ve now missed my last two critical prosthetic appointments. These aren’t optional visits. Without proper fitting and adjustments to my prosthetic arm, I lose more and more function every day. Simple tasks like dressing myself, preparing food, or even driving (if I ever get another vehicle) become nearly impossible. The longer I go without these appointments, the harder it becomes to stay independent and the more pain I endure.
I’m a fighter — I always have been — but right now I’m exhausted and honestly scared. Living in New York City as a left arm amputee without reliable transportation means I’m trapped. Doctor visits, therapy, grocery shopping, and basic errands turn into major obstacles. Every day that passes without help feels like I’m slowly losing the hard-won progress I made after coming home from war.
I’m not asking for luxury. I’m asking for a chance to get back on my feet — literally and figuratively. The funds from this campaign will first go toward securing reliable transportation so I can attend my prosthetic appointments and future medical needs. Any additional support will help with basic living expenses, medication, and the high out-of-pocket costs that veterans like me sometimes fall through the cracks on.
I never thought I’d be in this position after serving my country. I’m humbled and grateful for every single person who reads this. Whether you can donate $5, $10, $25, or simply share this campaign with your friends and family — you are giving me more than money. You’re giving me hope, dignity, and the ability to keep fighting.
To every veteran out there struggling in silence: you are not alone. To every American who believes in supporting those who served: thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your kindness will not be wasted.
Please help me get my prosthetic care back on track and regain some independence. Every share and every donation brings me one step closer to the life I fought so hard to return to.
With deepest regards,
venmo-@Joseph-Wilson-280