Meet Adaptive Athlete: Eric Morante

Eric Morante grew up playing football and boxing before joining the Marine Corps in 2003. He served as an infantry squad leader and completed three tours in Iraq.

 

On April 20th, 2007, a suicide bomber targeted Eric’s squad, resulting in a life-changing injury. The aftermath brought an eight-month battle with depression before the birth of his son gave him a renewed reason to begin rebuilding his life.

 

Eric went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Food and Beverage Operations from the Art Institute and is passionate about using food, fitness, and the outdoors to help others.

 

Today, Eric is focused on becoming stronger and healthier so he can stay active with his family and eventually pick up his grandchildren. He also dreams of starting a nonprofit that takes veterans on fishing and hunting trips while teaching them how to prepare healthy meals for their families. Physically, he wants to challenge himself by competing in a disabled bodybuilding show.

 

For Eric, recovery isn't just about getting stronger, it’s about building something meaningful with the life he fought to reclaim.