Lucas Velmer

I grew up in rural America to teenage parents who struggled to put food on the table and live in one place consistently. By the time I left home for the Army at 18, I had moved 16 times within a 30-mile radius. Little did I know that my experiences growing up poor with an abusive step-father and alcohol-dependent parents would set the stage for what would become a successful 21+ year Army career filled with self-doubt, depression, and attempted suicide.

My story highlights feelings of never being good enough despite success, despair, and the path of self-discovery. My story is one of hope and resiliency that helps reduce the stigma of seeking help.

My goal is to help others live better lives, and set a foundation for organizations who want to understand capabilities and limitations associated with mental illness.