Meet Adaptive Athlete: Michael Joe

Michael grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, where much of his early life was shaped by work rather than sports or organized activities. As he got older, he found his outlet in adventure and movement - cycling, scuba diving, hiking, riding his Harley, and participating in shooting sports. These pursuits became more than hobbies; they were his way of managing stress, building community, and finding moments of peace and clarity, especially in the outdoors.

 

Over the years, Michael experienced significant trauma, including a tragic oil field accident that claimed the life of his best friend while he was leading the job. In 2025, multiple losses of close friends and family compounded that trauma, leading to a diagnosis of complex PTSD. The cumulative weight of these experiences has deeply impacted his mental and emotional well-being, affecting his memory, energy levels, and ability to engage in the activities that once brought him joy.

 

Currently, Michael is working through EMDR therapy to process and heal from his past. While he has strong support from his close friends, day-to-day life can still feel overwhelming - he often relies on writing things down to stay on track and struggles with motivation, social energy, and maintaining routines. Activities that once grounded him now feel distant, leaving him searching for a way to reconnect with himself.

 

Through the Hyper program, Michael is seeking tools to rebuild. He hopes to regain clarity, establish healthy habits, and rediscover a sense of purpose and happiness. Ultimately, he wants to use his experiences not only to heal, but to help others navigate their own challenges and find a way forward.